Eyewear with radiation detection system

ABSTRACT

Eyewear having radiation monitoring capability is disclosed. Radiation, such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation, infrared (IR) radiation or light, can be measured by a detector. The measured radiation can then be used in providing radiation-related information to a user of the eyewear. Advantageously, the user of the eyewear is able to easily monitor their exposure to radiation.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The application claims priority to: (i) U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 60/562,798, filed Apr. 15, 2004, entitled “EYEWEAR WITHULTRAVIOLET DETECTION SYSTEM,” and which is hereby incorporated hereinby reference; (ii) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/583,169,filed Jun. 26, 2004, entitled “ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS FOR USE WITHEYEWEAR, AND METHODS THEREFOR,” and which is hereby incorporated hereinby reference; (iii) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/592,045,filed Jul. 28, 2004, entitled “EYEGLASSES WITH A CLOCK OR OTHERELECTRICAL COMPONENT,” and which is hereby incorporated herein byreference; (iv) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/605,191,filed Aug. 28, 2004, entitled “ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS FOR USE WITHEYEWEAR, AND METHODS THEREFOR,” and which is hereby incorporated hereinby reference; (v) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/618,107,filed Oct. 12, 2004, and entitled “TETHERED ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS FOREYEGLASSES,” which is hereby incorporated herein by reference; (vi) U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 60/620,238, filed Oct. 18, 2004,entitled “EYEGLASSES WITH HEARING ENHANCED AND OTHER AUDIOSIGNAL-GENERATING CAPABILITIES,” and which is hereby incorporated hereinby reference; (vii) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/647,836,filed Jan. 31, 2005, and entitled “EYEGLASSES WITH HEART RATE MONITOR,”which is hereby incorporated herein by reference; and (viii) U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 60/647,826, filed Jan. 31, 2005, andentitled “EYEWEAR WITH ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS,” which is herebyincorporated herein by reference.

In addition, this application is related to: (i) U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 10/822,218, filed Apr. 12, 2004, and entitled “EYEGLASSES FORWIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS.” which is hereby incorporated herein byreference; (ii) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/964,011, filed Oct.12, 2004, and entitled “TETHERED ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS FOR EYEGLASSES,”which is hereby incorporated herein by reference; (iii) U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 11/006,343, filed Dec. 7, 2004, and entitled“ADAPTABLE COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUES FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICES,” which ishereby incorporated herein by reference; and (iv) U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 11/078,857, filed Mar. 11, 2005, and entitled“RADIATION MONITORING SYSTEM,” which is hereby incorporated herein byreference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

It is common for people to be exposed to various types of radiation.Often excessive exposure to radiation can be hazardous to one's health.One type of radiation that frequently raises a health concern isultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV radiation is subdivided into three types:UV-A, UV-B, and UV-C. UV-C radiation has wavelengths in the range of 200to 285 nanometers (nm) and is totally absorbed by the earth'satmosphere. UV-B, from about 285 to 318 nm, is known to cause skincancer in humans. UV-A, from about 315 to 400 nm, is mostly responsiblefor tanning. However, UV-A has also been found to play some role in skincancer and is the cause of eye cataracts, solar retinitis, and cornealdystrophies.

Although several UV radiation measuring and warning instruments havebeen developed and made commercially available, these instruments aredisadvantageous for various reasons. One disadvantage is that theinstruments are often a stand alone, special purpose device. As aresult, a user must separately wear the special purpose device, whichcan be intrusive and often inconvenient. Another disadvantage is thatthose instruments, even if separate but attachable to other devices,hinder or impede the design for the devices.

Thus, there is a need for improved approaches to measure and informpersons of UV radiation levels.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one embodiment, the invention pertains to eyewear having radiationmonitoring capability. Radiation, such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation,infrared (IR) radiation or light, can be measured by a detector. Themeasured radiation can then be used in providing radiation-relatedinformation to a user of the eyewear. Advantageously, the user of theeyewear is able to easily monitor their exposure to radiation.

In one embodiment, all components for monitoring radiation can beintegrated with the eyewear, such as the frame (e.g., a temple of theframe) of the eyewear. Since any of the components provided can beintegrated with the eyewear, the disturbance to design features of theeyewear can be reduced. As an example, the eyewear normally includes apair of temples, and the components for monitoring radiation can beembedded within one or both of the temples. In one implementation, allcomponents for monitoring radiation are integrated into a temple of theframe of the eyewear. As an example, these components can be formedtogether on a substrate as a module.

In one embodiment, the eyewear includes a detector, electrical circuitryand an output device. The eyewear can also include one or both of abattery and a solar cell to provide power to the electrical circuitryand possibly other components. Further, the eyewear can also include oneor more additional sensors. Still further, the eyewear can also includecommunication capabilities.

The invention can be implemented in numerous ways, including as asystem, device, apparatus, and method. Several embodiments of theinvention are discussed below.

As a pair of eyeglasses, one embodiment of the invention includes atleast: at least one lens holder; a pair of temples; and a radiationmonitoring system at least partially embedded within one of the temples.

As a frame for eyeglasses, one embodiment of the invention includes atleast: a radiation detector for sensing an amount of radiation; and anelectronic circuit operatively connected to the radiation detector. Theelectronic circuit provides at least radiation information based on atleast the amount of radiation sensed by the radiation detector. Theradiation detector and the electronic circuit are at least partiallyembedded in the frame.

As a method for monitoring radiation for a person, one embodiment of theinvention includes at least the acts of: obtaining a pair of glasses,the glasses having at least a lens holder, a pair of temples, and aradiation detector, wherein the pair of glasses may be worn by theperson; acquiring a radiation level impinging on the radiation detectorof the pair of glasses; and outputting radiation information to theperson based on the radiation level.

Other aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent fromthe following detailed description taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings which illustrate, by way of example, theprinciples of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be readily understood by the following detaileddescription in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein likereference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of UV monitoring glasses according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are diagrams of a circuit board according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a UV monitoring system according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4A is a block diagram of a UV monitoring system according toanother embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4B is a block diagram of a UV monitoring system according to stillanother embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4C is a block diagram of a UV monitoring system according to yetanother embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4D is a block diagram of a UV monitoring system according to yetanother embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 is a chart that depicts examples of auxiliary sensors that can beutilized as the one or more auxiliary sensors shown in FIGS. 4A-4D.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a UV monitoring system according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7A is a schematic diagram of a UV monitoring circuit according toone embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7B is a schematic diagram of a UV monitoring circuit according toanother embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7C is a schematic diagram of a UV monitoring circuit according toyet another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7D is a schematic diagram of a UV monitoring circuit according tostill yet another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of a UV monitoring process according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of a UV monitoring process according to anotherembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of a UV monitoring process according to yetanother embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 11 is a flow diagram of a UV monitoring process according to stillyet another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram of electronic circuitry according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 13A is a schematic diagram of an electronic circuit for a UVdetection system according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 13B is a schematic diagram of a periodic supply voltage circuitaccording to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14A is a block diagram of a radiation monitoring system accordingto one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14B is a block diagram of a radiation monitoring system accordingto another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14C is a schematic diagram of a radiation-to-frequency converteraccording to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14D is a schematic diagram of a latch according to one embodimentof the invention.

FIG. 14E is a schematic diagram of a LCD driver according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14F is a schematic diagram of a power supply according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14G is a cross-sectional view of a UV detector arrangementaccording to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14H is a cross-sectional view of a UV detector arrangementaccording to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14I is a cross-sectional view of a UV detector arrangementaccording to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14J is a partial block diagram of a radiation monitoring systemaccording to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14K is a schematic diagram of a radiation-to-frequency converterand a sensor according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14L is a diagram of a representative waveform of a low duty cyclesignal V_(D).

FIG. 14M is a schematic diagram of a power supply another according toone embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14N is a diagram of a binary counter according to one embodiment ofthe invention.

FIG. 14O is a block diagram of latch-driver circuitry according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14P is a block diagram of driver circuitry according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14Q is a block diagram of driver circuitry according to anotherembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14R is a block diagram of a radiation monitoring system accordingto another embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 15A-15C are cross-sectional diagrams of a radiation detectionsystems according to different embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 16A is a cross-sectional view of an eyewear housing containing aradiation detection system according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 16B is a cross-sectional view of an eyewear housing containing aradiation detection system according to another embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 16C is a cross-sectional view of an eyewear housing containing aradiation detection system according to still another embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 16D is a cross-sectional view of an eyewear housing containing a UVdetection system according to yet still embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 16E is a cross-sectional view of an eyewear housing containing aradiation monitoring system according to one embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 17A is a cross-sectional view of a module housing according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 17B is a cross-sectional view of an eyewear housing according toone embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of an eyewear housing having areflective-type filter according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 19 is a side view of a temple for an eyeglass frame according toone embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 20A and 20B are top view diagrams of a portion of an eyeglassframe according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 21 is a side view of a temple for an eyeglass frame according toone embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 22 is a side view of a temple for an eyeglass frame according toanother embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 23A-23G illustrate examples of various end products havingradiation monitoring capability.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In one embodiment, an electronic circuit having radiation monitoringcapability. Radiation, such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation, infrared (IR)radiation or light, can be measured by the electronic circuit. Themeasured radiation can then be used in providing radiation-relatedinformation to a user of the electronic circuit.

In one embodiment, all components for monitoring radiation can beintegrated with eyewear, such as a frame (e.g., a temple of the frame)of the eyewear. Since any of the components provided can be integratedwith the eyewear, the disturbance to design features of the eyewear canbe reduced. As an example, the eyewear normally includes a pair oftemples, and the components for monitoring radiation can be embeddedwithin one or both of the temples. In one implementation, all componentsfor monitoring radiation are integrated into a temple of the frame ofthe eyewear. As an example, these components can be formed together on asubstrate as a module.

In one embodiment, the eyewear includes a detector, electrical circuitryand an output device. The eyewear can also include one or both of abattery and a solar cell to provide power to the electrical circuitryand possibly other components. Further, the eyewear can also include oneor more additional sensors. Still further, the eyewear can also includecommunication capabilities.

In another embodiment, some or all of the components for monitoringradiation can be partially or completely tethered to the eyewear. Instill another embodiment, some or all of one or more auxiliary sensorsused therewith could be partially or completely tethered to the eyewear.Tethering components allows for increased design freedom with theeyewear as well as additional area with which to house the components.

The eyewear can contain lenses, either vision corrective lenses ornon-corrective lenses. Examples of eyewear using corrective lensesinclude, for example, prescription glasses, bi-focal glasses, readingglasses, driving glasses, and progressive glasses. Examples of eyewear,using corrective or non-corrective lenses, are sunglasses, fit-overglasses, safety glasses, sports glasses, swim masks or goggles and skigoggles. The eyewear can also include wrap-around glasses (withwrap-around lenses), fit-over glasses, or auxiliary frames (which attachto existing frames). Still further, the eyewear can include a strap forglasses, such as a strap to hold glasses on one's head. The strap caninclude some or all of the components for monitoring radiation, suchcomponents can be attached or at least partially embedded in the strap.

Embodiments of the invention are discussed below with reference to FIGS.1-23G. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate thatthe detailed description given herein with respect to these figures isfor explanatory purposes as the invention extends beyond these limitedembodiments. Although much of the discussion below pertains tomonitoring of UV radiation, it should be understood that the inventionis also applicable to other types of radiation (infrared, x-rays, etc.).

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of UV monitoring glasses 100 according toone embodiment of the invention. The UV monitoring glasses 100 include aframe and a pair of lenses 102. The frame has lens holders 104 that holdthe lenses 102 in position. The frame also has a bridge 106. The UVmonitoring glasses 100 also include a pair of temples (or arms) 108. Thetemples 108 are considered part of the frame. As shown in FIG. 1, eachof the temples 108 is coupled to the frame by a hinge 109. In oneembodiment, the temples 108 can be removed from the frame. At least oneof the temples 108 includes an internal cavity 110. Within the internalcavity 110 is a circuit board 112. The circuit board 112 can serve as asubstrate. The circuit board 112 can have or couple to a solar cell 114and UV detector 116 which are also at least primarily provided withinthe internal cavity 110. The circuit board 112 could include a battery(not shown) in addition to or alternative to the solar cell 114. Thetemple 108 having the cavity region 110 includes an opening 118 for thesolar cell 114 (if provided) and an opening 120 for the UV detector 116.In addition, the circuit board 112 can further include or couple tocircuitry 122 and a display device 124. For example, the display device124 can be either a liquid-crystal display (LCD) or a Light-EmittingDiode (LED) display having one or more LED components, either of whichcan be controlled by the circuitry 122. The solar cell 114 can receivelight via the opening 118 so as to provide power to the circuit board112. The UV detector 116 can receive light via the opening 120. The UVdetector 116 is used to provide an indication of UV radiation. Theindication of UV radiation detected by the UV detector 116 can beprocessed by the circuitry 122 to produce an output at the displaydevice 124.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are diagrams of the circuit board 112 according to oneembodiment of the invention. In one embodiment, the circuit boardincludes at least one electronic component.

FIG. 2A shows a first side of the circuit board 112. Typically, thefirst side would be positioned adjacent a top side or outer side of thetemple 108. As shown in FIG. 2A, the first side of the circuit board 112has the solar cell 114 and the UV detector 116 attached thereto. Thefirst side of the circuit board 112 should be exposed at least partiallyto external light (e.g., sunlight). Hence, the openings 118 and/or 120of the temple 108 shown in FIG. 1 can provide openings so that light canimpinge upon the solar cell 114 and the UV detector 116.

FIG. 2B shows a second side of the circuit board 112. The second side ofthe circuit board 112 can be a bottom side or inner side of the temple108. As shown in FIG. 2B, the second side of the circuit board 112 canhave the circuitry 122 and the display device 124 attached thereto. Aspreviously noted, the display device 124 can be a LED or LCD display. Asdepicted in FIG. 2B, the display device 124 can be a multi-characterdisplay. Alternatively, the display device 124 can be a multi-colordisplay, such as provided by a color LCD or a plurality of differentcolor LEDs (e.g., a red LED, yellow LED and green LED). The displaydevice 124 can also be a multi-symbol display. Although not shown inFIG. 1, the UV monitoring glasses 100 can further include an opening ortransparent portion at the temple 108 proximate to the display device124 so that an output from the display device 124 can be visible to auser of the UV monitoring glasses 100.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a UV monitoring system 300 according to oneembodiment of the invention. The UV monitoring system 300 can beembedded within (i.e., internal to) the housing (i.e., frame) of a pairof glasses. Glasses refer to eyewear.

The UV monitoring system 300 includes electrical circuitry 302. Theelectrical circuitry 302 can be one or more electrical components, suchas integrated circuits, analog components, and/or digital components.One or more solar cells 304 provide power to the electrical circuitry302. In other words, when light impinges upon the one or more solarcells 304, power is produced and supplied to the electrical circuitry302. The electrical circuitry 302 receives a UV level indication from aUV detector 306. In one embodiment, the UV detector 306 includes aphotodetector 305 and an optical filter 308. The optical filter 308 canbe integral with or positioned proximate to the photodetector 305 sothat the optical filter 308 passes radiation associated with theultraviolet wavelength range, and such radiation is supplied to thephotodetector 305. As a result, the UV level indication produced by theUV detector 306 is an indication of the UV radiation impinging uponglasses or the user thereof. The electrical circuitry 302 receives theUV level indication from the UV detector 306 and determines whether anoutput should be signaled by an output device 310. The output device 310can take a variety of different forms. For example, the output device310 can be a display device, such as a LED or LCD display. A displaydevice can produce a visual output. The output device 310 can also be aspeaker or a vibration device. The speaker can produce an audio output.For example, the audio output can be a buzzing sound, a beep or asynthesized voice message.

FIG. 4A is a block diagram of a UV monitoring system 400 according toanother embodiment of the invention. The UV monitoring system 400includes the electrical circuitry 302, the one or more solar cells 304,the UV detector 306, and the output device 310 shown in FIG. 3. Inaddition, the UV monitoring system 400 further includes or makes use ofone or more auxiliary sensors 402. The one or more auxiliary sensors 402can provide additional sensor information to the electrical circuitry302. This additional sensor information can affect the output beingprovided at the output device 310. For example, the additional sensorinformation could be used to provide additional output data or could beused to modify the output data associated with the UV level indicationprovided by the UV detector 306.

FIG. 4B is a block diagram of a UV monitoring system 450 according tostill another embodiment of the invention. The UV monitoring system 450is generally similar to the UV monitoring system 400 shown in FIG. 4,but further includes or makes use of a “being worn” detector 452. The UVmonitoring system 450 can be embedded within (i.e., internal to) thehousing (i.e., frame) of a pair of glasses. The “being worn” detector452 would indicate whether the glasses are being worn by its user. Forexample, the “being worn” detector 452 can be performed using a thermalsensor, a motion detector, a stress sensor or a switch. Although the“being worn” detector 452 is shown separate from the auxiliary sensors402, it should be understood that the “being worn” detector 452 can beconsidered one type of auxiliary sensor.

FIG. 4C is a block diagram of a UV monitoring system 460 according toyet another embodiment of the invention. The UV monitoring system 460 isgenerally similar to the UV monitoring system 400 shown in FIG. 4A, butfurther includes a photodetector 462. Also, in this embodiment, theoptical filter 308′ blocks UV light and passes other light through tothe photodetector 305′. As an example, the optical filter 308′ can be athin sheet or coating of polycarbonate. In this embodiment, thephotodetector 305′ provides an indication of non-UV light, and thephotodetector 462 provides an indication of total light. The electricalcircuitry 302′ receives the indication of non-UV light and theindication of total light. By subtracting the indication of non-UV lightfrom the indication of total light, the electrical circuitry 302′determines an indication of UV light. In one embodiment, thephotodetectors 305′ and 462 can be Silicon (Si) photodetectors. Theelectrical circuitry 302′ determines whether an output should besignaled by an output device 310 based on the UV level indication. Aspreviously noted, the output device 310 can take a variety of differentforms.

FIG. 4D is a block diagram of a UV monitoring system 470 according tostill yet another embodiment of the invention. The UV monitoring system470 includes the electrical circuitry 302, the one or more solar cells304, the UV detector 306 and the output device 310 shown in FIG. 3. Inthis embodiment, the UV detector 306 measures the UV level indicationdirectly, without the need for an additional optical filter. Forexample, the UV detector 306 can be a Gallium Nitride (GaN)photodetector since such has a sensitivity to UV radiation. As anotherexample, the UV detector 306 can be a Silicon Carbide (SiC)photodetector since such also has a sensitivity to UV radiation. SiliconCarbide (SiC) detectors may also be suitable for use to detect othertypes of radiation besides UV. The electrical circuitry 302 receives theUV level indication from the UV detector 306 and determines whether anoutput should be signaled by the output device 310. As noted above, theoutput device 310 can take a variety of different forms.

The one or more auxiliary sensors 402 utilized in the UV monitoringsystem 400 shown in FIGS. 4A-4D can vary depending upon application.FIG. 5 is a chart 500 that depicts examples of auxiliary sensors thatcan be utilized as the one or more auxiliary sensors 402 shown in FIGS.4A and 4D.

The chart 500 indicates that one type of auxiliary sensor is a “beingworn” sensor. The “being worn” sensor would indicate whether the glassesare being worn by its user. The “being worn” sensor can be performedusing, for example, a thermal sensor, a motion detector, a stress sensoror a switch.

In one embodiment, a motion detector is used as a “being worn” sensor. Athreshold can be set, such that if the amount of motion detected exceedsthe threshold, the eyewear is assumed to be worn. The motion detectorcan, for example, be achieved by a mechanical means or an accelerometer.

In another embodiment, the “being worn” sensor includes one or morethermal sensors. In the case where two sensors are used, one sensor canbe at approximately the middle of a temple, such as in a region thattouches the head of the user wearing the glasses, and the other sensorcan be positioned at the end of the same temple close to the hinge. Ifthe temperature differential between the two sensors is beyond a certainpreset value, the eyewear would be assumed to be worn.

In yet another embodiment, the “being worn” sensor includes a stresssensor at the hinge of the temple. The assumption is that when theeyewear is worn, the hinge is typically slightly stretched becausetypically the width of the head of the user is slightly wider than thewidth between the temples when the two temples are in the extendedpositions. If the value of the stress sensor is beyond a certain presetvalue, the glasses would be assumed to be worn.

In still yet another embodiment, the “being worn” sensor can beimplemented as a switch. For example, the switch can utilize optical,magnetic or mechanical means. In one embodiment, the switch can bepositioned at the temple of the eyewear, such as a forward end of thetemple proximate to a corresponding lens holder. Different embodimentsof such sensors is also described in U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 60/583,169, filed Jun. 26, 2004, entitled “ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS FORUSE WITH EYEWEAR, AND METHODS THEREFOR,” which has been incorporatedherein by reference, see, e.g., section entitled “EYEGLASSES WITH USERINPUT CAPABILITY.”

Another type of auxiliary sensor is an environmental sensor. Theenvironmental sensor can sense environmental conditions, such as one ormore of temperature (e.g., ambient temperature), pressure, humidity andtoxins (e.g., chemicals, radiation, etc.).

Still another type of auxiliary sensor is a physical sensor. Thephysical sensor can sense physical conditions of the user of theglasses. Examples of physical sensors include sensing one or more ofdistance traveled, location, speed, calories consumed, temperature,alertness, and vital signs (e.g., heart rate, blood pressure, etc.)associated with the user of the glasses. The distance traveled couldrepresent the horizontal distance traveled or the vertical distance(i.e. elevation) traveled. As one example, a pedometer can provide anestimate of distance traveled. The speed can be acquired or determined,such as the rate of movement along the horizontal distance traveledand/or the vertical distance. As another example, calories consumed canbe determined (e.g., estimated) based on various physical and/orenvironmental conditions that can be measured or determined. Still otherphysical sensors can sense emotions of the user. For example, thephysical sensor could sense whether the user is calm, excited, happy,sad, angry, etc. The physical sensor can also more generally sense useractivity level. As an example, the user activity level can be used toprovide a lifestyle indication. For example, a lifestyle indicationmight show that the user was active today or, alternatively, lazy today.Such a lifestyle indication can be displayed as a text or graphic symbolto let the user or others aware of the activity level.

In one embodiment, one particular type of physical sensor is aheart-beat sensor. The heart-beat sensor measures the heart beat of thewearer of the eyewear. One implementation for the heart-beat sensorutilizes an infrared emitter and an infrared detector as a component.The infrared emitter can be a LED and the infrared detector can be aphotodiode with an infrared filter. The component can be located at atemple of the eyewear, with both the emitter and the detector bothfacing the user when the eyewear is worn. In operation, the infraredemitter shines infrared radiation towards the user, and the detectorcaptures the infrared signals reflected back by the skin of the user.The magnitude of the reflected signals depends on the amount of bloodflowing below the skin, which, in turn, depends on the heart beat. Therate of emission by the emitter and reception by the detector can be ina frequency range much higher than the heart beat, such as threethousands cycles per second. And the signals from the detector can below-pass filtered before they are measured to identify the heart beat ofthe user. For example, the low-pass filter can be centered at 1 Hz.

In should be understood that the sensors might rely on more than onemeasured criteria. The one or more measured criteria might be used todetermine the sensor output. The determination of the sensor output caninvolve estimation or prediction.

The auxiliary sensors can be provided in a redundant or fault-tolerantmanner. For example, sensors can be provided in pairs. When one sensorof a pair malfunctions, the other one can replace it. In anotherembodiment, any of the auxiliary sensor information can be processed ina differential manner to examine changes to the auxiliary sensorinformation. The auxiliary sensors can by powered by a battery, solarenergy, or kinetic energy. For reduced power consumption, the auxiliarysensors can remain in a low-power state unless data is being acquired bythe auxiliary sensors. In yet another embodiment, two or more of theauxiliary sensors can communicate with one another (wired or wirelessly)to exchange data or control information.

In general, the auxiliary sensors can be fully or partially embedded inthe eyewear or a base tethered to the eyewear. Alternatively, one ormore of the auxiliary sensors can be separate from the eyewear, or anybase tethered thereto, and wirelessly communicate with the eyewear orbase.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a UV monitoring system 600 according to oneembodiment of the invention. The UV monitoring system 600 is generallysimilar to the UV monitoring systems illustrated in FIGS. 3-4D. However,in the UV monitoring system 600, a battery 602 provides power to theelectrical circuitry 302. In other words, in this embodiment, the one ormore solar cells 304 are optional. The UV monitoring system 600 canoperate without the need for any light to impinge upon the one or moresolar cells 304. If the UV monitoring system 600 does include the one ormore solar cells 304, the power produced by the one or more solar cells304 can be coupled to the battery 602 so as to recharge the battery. Thebattery 602 also allows the electrical circuitry 302 to maintain dataeven while no light is present (e.g., if a volatile memory is used tostore data). The ability to maintain data (such as in a memory device)can be advantageous. For example, the UV monitoring system 600 maydesire to output information over longer durations of time, or maydesire to process data in a differential manner. The UV monitoringsystem 600 can also further include one or more auxiliary sensors.

FIG. 7A is a schematic diagram of a UV monitoring circuit 700 accordingto one embodiment of the invention. The UV monitoring circuit 700includes a phototransistor 702. Although the phototransistor 702 mayitself serve as a UV detector, in some implementations, an opticalfilter (not shown) would limit the radiation that impinges on thephototransistor 702, in which case the phototransistor 702 together withthe optical filter serves as the UV detector. A collector terminal ofthe phototransistor 702 is coupled to a power source Vcc. The powersource Vcc can be provided by a battery or solar cell(s). An emitterterminal of the phototransistor 702 is coupled to a first end of aresistor 704, a first end of the capacitor 706 and a gate terminal of atransistor 708. As an example, the transistor 708 can be an n-channelmetal-oxide-semiconductor, enhancement-mode, field-effect transistor(MOSFET). A second end of the resistor 704, a second end of thecapacitor 706 and a source terminal of the transistor 708 are coupled toground. An output device 710 couples between the power source Vcc and adrain terminal of the transistor 708. As sufficient radiation, such asUV radiation, impinges on the phototransistor 702, the phototransistor702 conducts so that the emitter terminal of the phototransistor 702outputs the voltage V1 by coupling to the power source Vcc through thephototransistor 702. The voltage V1 is dependent on the amount of UVradiation that impinges on the phototransistor 702. The capacitor 706then charges up in accordance with a time constant determined by thecapacitance of the capacitor 706 and the resistance of the resistor 704.When the voltage V1 exceeds a turn-on voltage for the transistor 708,the transistor 708 conducts and the output device 710 is activated. Forexample, the output device 710 can indicate that the UV monitoringcircuit has detected exposure to a large amount of UV radiation. Theamount of UV radiation exposure being detected can vary depending on thecapacitance of the capacitor 706 and the resistance of the resistor 704.

FIG. 7B is a schematic diagram of a UV monitoring circuit 750 accordingto another embodiment of the invention. The UV monitoring circuit 750includes a phototransistor 752. Although the phototransistor 752 mayitself serve as a UV detector, in some implementations, an opticalfilter (not shown) would limit the radiation that impinges on thephototransistor 752 in which case the phototransistor 752 together withthe optical filter serves as the UV detector. A collector terminal ofthe phototransistor 752 is coupled to a power source Vcc. The powersource Vcc can be a battery or solar cell(s). An emitter terminal of thephototransistor 752 is coupled to a first end of a resistor 754 as wellas to an input to an analog-to-digital (A/D) converter 756. The secondend of the resistor 754 couples to ground. The A/D converter 756converts the voltage level at the emitter terminal of thephototransistor 752 to a digital voltage value having n bits. Thedigital voltage value represents the UV radiation impinging on thephototransistor 752. The digital voltage value is supplied to acontroller 758. The controller 758 can, for example, be amicrocontroller. In one embodiment, the microcontroller is amicroprocessor. An output device 760 couples between the power sourceVcc and ground. The output device 760 also couples to an output terminalof the controller 758. As sufficient radiation, such as UV radiation,impinges on the phototransistor 752, the phototransistor 752 conducts sothat a voltage is supplied to the A/D converter 756 which produces thecorresponding digital voltage value. The digital voltage value isdependent on the amount of UV radiation that impinges on thephototransistor 752. The controller 758 can then determine whether toactivate the output device 760. For example, controller 758 can activatethe output device 760 to indicate that the UV monitoring circuit 750 hasdetected (i) current exposure to a substantial (e.g., large) amount ofUV radiation (e.g., amount of UV radiation greater than a thresholdamount), and/or (ii) exposure to a substantial (e.g., large) amount ofUV radiation accumulated over a time period (e.g., accumulated amount ofUV radiation greater than a threshold amount). Although not shown, thecontroller 758 can also receive sensor information from one or moreother auxiliary sensors and signal other types of outputs via the outputdevice 760.

FIG. 7C is a schematic diagram of a UV monitoring circuit 770 accordingto yet another embodiment of the invention. The UV monitoring circuit770 includes a phototransistor 772. Although the phototransistor 772 mayitself serve as a UV detector, in some implementations, an opticalfilter (not shown) would limit the radiation that impinges on thephototransistor 772 in which case the phototransistor 772 together withthe optical filter serves as the UV detector. A collector terminal ofthe phototransistor 772 is coupled to a power source Vcc. An emitterterminal of the phototransistor 772 is coupled to a first end of aresistor 774, a first end of a capacitor 776 and a gate terminal of atransistor 778. An output device 780 couples between the power sourceVcc and a drain terminal of the transistor 778. A second end of theresistor 774, a second end of a capacitor 776 and a source terminal ofthe transistor 778 are coupled to a drain terminal of a transistor 784.As an example, the transistors 778 and 784 can be n-channelmetal-oxide-semiconductor, enhancement-mode, field-effect transistors(MOSFETs). As one example, MOSFETs can be 2N7008 MOSFETs. The sourceterminal of the transistor 784 is coupled to ground. The gate terminalof the transistor 784 is coupled to a first end of a resistor 786 and afirst end of a capacitor 788. A second end of the resistor 786 and thesecond end of the capacitor 788 are coupled to ground. The gate terminalof the transistor 784 is also coupled to the power source Vcc through abeing-worn switch 782. A battery 790 can supply power to the UVmonitoring circuit 770. As one example, the battery 790 can be a three(3) Volt lithium battery. The size and configuration of the battery 790can also vary. In one example, the battery 790 can be a coin battery. Inanother example, the battery 790 can be a triple-A (AAA) battery. Assufficient radiation, such as UV radiation, impinges on thephototransistor 772, the phototransistor 772 conducts so that theemitter terminal of the phototransistor 772 outputs the voltage V1 bycoupling to the power source Vcc through the phototransistor 772. Thecapacitor 776 then charges up in accordance with a time constantdetermined by the capacitance of the capacitor 776 and the resistance ofthe resistor 774. When the voltage V1 exceeds a turn-on voltage for thetransistor 778, the transistor 778 conducts. However, in thisembodiment, the transistor 784 also must conduct in order for the outputdevice 770 to be activated. The transistor 784 conducts when the “beingworn” switch 782 is closed. The “being worn” switch 782 indicateswhether the eyewear (including the UV monitoring circuit 770) is beingworn by its user. The sensitivity of the “being worn” switch 782 can becontrolled by the capacitance of the capacitor 788 and the resistance ofthe resistor 786. For example, the output device 780 can indicate thatthe UV monitoring circuit 770 has detected exposure to a large amount ofUV radiation while the eyewear is being worn. The amount of UV radiationexposure being detected can vary depending on the capacitance of thecapacitor 776 and the resistance of the resistor 774.

The UV monitoring circuits according to the invention can also includeswitches, such as a “being-worn” switch, skin type, reset switch and/oran on/off switch. A “being-worn” switch was, for example, discussedabove with reference to FIG. 7C. The on/off switch can also provide areset capability. A reset switch and an/on switch are further discussedbelow with reference to FIG. 7D.

FIG. 7D is a schematic diagram of a UV monitoring circuit 770′ accordingto still yet another embodiment of the invention. The UV monitoringcircuit 770′ is generally similar to the UV monitoring circuit 770 ofFIG. 7C, except that a reset switch 792, an on switch 794 and an offswitch 796 are provided. Additionally, the resistor 786 shown in FIG. 7Cis removed from the UV monitoring circuit 770′. The reset switch 792 canbe a push button, such that when pressed, causes any charge on thecapacitor 776 to be discharged. As a result, assuming the transistor 778is conducting (i.e., on) when the reset switch is pushed, the transistor778 stops conducting (i.e., off) because the voltage V1 is effectivelyzeroed and thus does not exceed the turn-on voltage for the transistor778. Consequently, the output device 780 stops providing any output(e.g., display device cleared or off, audio stopped, etc.). Once thereset switch 792 is released, the capacitor 776 can again begin toaccumulate charge representing UV radiation. The on switch 794 and theoff switch 796 can also be implemented as push button switches. When theon switch 794 is pressed, the capacitor 788 is charged so that thetransistor 784 conducts (i.e., turns-on) and then remains on until theoff switch 796 is pressed. In this embodiment, the on switch 794 and theoff switch 796 should not both be pressed at the same time. Although thereset switch 792, the on switch 794 and the off switch 796 areimplemented as push button switches in FIG. 7D, other types of switchescan be used.

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of a UV monitoring process 800 according to oneembodiment of the invention. The UV monitoring process 800 is, forexample, performed by a UV monitoring system embedded within and/ortethered to a pair of glasses. The UV monitoring system can, forexample, represent any of the UV monitoring systems 300, 400, 450, 460,470, 600, 700, 750, 770 or 770′ discussed above with reference to FIGS.3, 4A-4D, 6 and 7A-7D.

The UV monitoring process 800 begins with a decision 802 that determineswhether the glasses are being worn. As noted above, the determination ofwhether the glasses are being worn can be done in a variety of ways. Inany case, when the decision 802 determines that the glasses are notbeing worn, then the UV monitoring process 800 waits until the glassesare being worn. In other words, when the glasses are not being worn, theUV monitoring process 800 can stop, block (pause or wait) or deactivateuntil it is determined that the glasses are being worn.

On the other hand, when the decision 802 determines that the glasses arebeing worn, a UV radiation level is acquired 804. For example, the UVradiation level can be acquired 804 from electronic circuitry which caninclude a UV detector. Next, UV information is determined 806 based onthe UV radiation level (radiation data). For example, the UV informationcan pertain to normalized or calibrated radiation data, accumulatedradiation data, or processed radiation data. Hence, although the UVradiation level (radiation data) could be output to the user, byoutputting the UV information to the user of the glasses, more usefulinformation (e.g., easier to comprehend) can be presented to the user.Other examples of UV information are referenced elsewhere, such as theUV radiation information discussed below in FIG. 9.

Next, the UV information can be output 808 to the output device. The UVinformation need not always be output 808 to the output device. Forexample, the UV information could be output 808 to the output devicedepending upon whether it signals a particular condition to the user. Asanother example, the UV information could be output to the output deviceon request by the user. As still another example, the UV informationcould be output to the output device based on a sensed condition orevent. Next, a decision 810 can determine whether the UV monitoringprocess 800 should continue. When the decision 810 determines that theUV monitoring process 800 should not continue, then the UV monitoringprocess 800 waits until it is time to be continued. This allows the UVmonitoring process 800 to be performed periodically or as needed, whichcan lead to reduced power consumption and/or more meaningful outputinformation to the user. While the UV monitoring process 800 is waiting,some or all of the UV monitoring system can be in a reduced powerconsumption state. Nevertheless, when the decision 810 determines thatthe UV monitoring process 800 should continue, the UV monitoring process800 returns to repeat the decision 802 and subsequent operations.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of a UV monitoring process 900 according toanother embodiment of the invention. The UV monitoring process 900 is,for example, performed by a UV monitoring system embedded within and/ortethered to a pair of glasses. The UV monitoring system can, forexample, represent any of the UV monitoring systems 300, 400, 450, 460,470, 600, 700, 750, 770 or 770′ discussed above with reference to FIGS.3, 4A-4D, 6 and 7A-7D. However, the UV monitoring process 900 isparticularly suitable for UV monitoring systems having “being worn”detection capability, such as the UV monitoring systems 450 and 770.

The UV monitoring process 900 begins with a decision 902 that determineswhether adequate solar energy is present. In this embodiment, solarcells provide adequate solar energy for the UV monitoring process 900 tobe performed. In other words, the UV monitoring system (and thus theglasses) operate in the presence of light. When the decision 902determines that adequate solar energy (e.g., sunlight or artificiallight) is not present, then the UV monitoring process 900 awaitsadequate solar energy. In one implementation, the UV monitoring systemperforming the UV monitoring process 900 can automatically turn-off ordeactivate when inadequate solar energy is present. Such operationfacilitates passive UV monitoring with minimal user participation.

On the other hand, when the decision 902 determines that adequate solarenergy is present, a decision 904 determines whether the glasses arebeing worn. When the decision 904 determines that the glasses are notbeing worn, then the UV monitoring process 900 returns to repeat thedecision 902 and subsequent operations. In effect, the UV monitoringprocess 900 is not performed when the decision 904 determines that theglasses are not being worn by the user. As noted above, thedetermination of whether the glasses are being worn can be done in avariety of ways.

Optionally, a delay can be inserted when the decision 904 determinesthat the glasses are not being worn so as to save power consumption.Such a delay would allow the UV monitoring process 900 to stop, halt,inactivate or otherwise wait for the period of the delay prior toreturning to the decision 902 and subsequent operations. While the UVmonitoring process 900 is stopped, halted, inactivated or otherwisewaiting, some or all of the UV monitoring system can be in a reducedpower consumption state.

Alternatively, when the decision 904 determines that the glasses arebeing worn, a decision 906 can determine whether an interval timer hasexpired. The interval timer can determine how frequently the UVradiation level is checked and/or how frequently radiation informationis output to a display. The interval timer can also thus lead to reducedpower consumption (i.e., low-power mode for the electronic circuitry).When the decision 906 determines that the interval timer has notexpired, the UV monitoring process 900 waits for the interval timer toexpire. During this period of waiting, the UV monitoring process 900 canplace some or all of the UV monitoring system in a low-power mode.Alternatively, during this period of waiting, the UV monitoring process900 can perform processing of other auxiliary sensors that can produceother sensor data which can be processed in conjunction with UVradiation levels.

Once the decision 906 determines that the interval timer has expired, aUV radiation level is acquired 908. Then, UV radiation information isoutput 910 to the user of the glasses based on the UV radiation level.For example, the UV radiation information can pertain to aninstantaneous radiation level, an accumulated radiation level, or somereference radiation indication. An example of a reference radiationindication can be a numerical value, text or a graphic indication. Oneexample of a numerical value implementation is a value representing apercentage of recommended daily dosage. Another example of a numericalvalue implementation is a value representing UV intensity. One exampleof a text implementation would be a word (e.g., “ok”, “Burnt”, etc.).One example of a graphic implementation would be a bar-type graph.Another example of a graphic implementation would be a graphic symbol(e.g., a lobster symbol, a fire flames symbol, a picture of a sun, or asmiley face).

Next, the interval timer can be reset 912 and the UV monitoring process900 can thereafter return to repeat the decision 902 and subsequentoperations. As a result, the UV monitoring provided by the UV monitoringprocess 900 can be continuously performed so long as adequate solarenergy is present and the glasses are being worn.

FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of a UV monitoring process 1000 according toyet another embodiment of the invention. The UV monitoring process 1000is, for example, performed by a UV monitoring system embedded withinand/or tethered to a pair of glasses. The UV monitoring system can, forexample, represent any of the UV monitoring systems 300, 400, 450, 460,470, 600, 700, 750, 770 or 770′ discussed above with reference to FIGS.3, 4A-4D, 6 and 7A-7D.

The UV monitoring process 1000 begins with a decision 1002 thatdetermines whether adequate solar energy (e.g., sunlight or artificiallight) is available. When the decision 1002 determines that adequatesolar energy is not available, then the UV monitoring process 1000 isdeactivated, blocked or effectively not invoked. In this embodiment,solar cells provide adequate solar energy for the UV monitoring process1000 to be performed. In other words, the glasses operate in thepresence of sufficient light. When the decision 1002 determines thatadequate solar energy is not present, then the UV monitoring process1000 awaits adequate solar energy.

Once the decision 1002 determines that adequate solar energy isavailable, then the UV monitoring process 1000 proceeds. Here, the UVmonitoring process 1000 can optionally determine whether the glasses arebeing worn. In any case, as shown in FIG. 10, when the decision 1002determines that adequate solar energy is available, a UV radiation levelis acquired 1004. For example, the UV radiation level can be acquired bya UV detector.

Next, the UV radiation level is accumulated 1006 during a time period.Here, the UV radiation levels acquired over a predetermined period oftime are accumulated 1006 so that the radiation information is based onan accumulation of radiation that has been acquired over thepredetermined period of time. For example, the predetermined period oftime can be one hour, four hours, eight hours, twelve hours, twenty-fourhours, two days, four days, one week, one month or one year.

Thereafter, a decision 1008 determines whether a UV radiation warning isneeded. Here, the accumulated UV radiation level can be compared with athreshold to determine whether the accumulated UV radiation isexcessive. In one implementation, the threshold can vary with, or bepersonalized to, different users, such as based on skin type, age, orskin condition. A user of the glasses can input data (e.g., skin type)by way of at least one switch or button. In another implementation, aplurality of threshold levels can be used, e.g., to provide aprogression of UV radiation levels (and notifications). Alternatively,the glasses can use predetermined settings and offer several versions(e.g., different glasses for different skin types).

When the decision 1008 determines that the UV radiation warning is notneeded, then the UV monitoring process 1000 returns to repeat thedecision 1002 and subsequent operations so that the UV radiation levelcan continuously or periodically be monitored. In one embodiment, the UVmonitoring process 1000 can reset the accumulated UV radiation after theperiod of time has been exceeded. In another embodiment, the accumulatedUV radiation can be reset after no significant UV radiation is presentfor a period of time (e.g., 6-12 hours), after no significant solarenergy is present for a period of time (e.g., 6-12 hours), or after notbeing worn for a period of time (e.g., 6-12 hours), whereby eachevening, for example, the reset can automatically occur. In anotherembodiment, the UV monitoring system, and thus the UV monitoring process1000, can be automatically turned off (which also resets) after theperiod of time has been exceeded or after no significant UV radiation ispresent for a period of time.

On the other hand, when the decision 1008 determines that a UV radiationwarning is needed, then a UV radiation warning is output 1010 to theuser. The warning can be varied or personalized to the user, and/or canvary depending on the user, user preference, UV radiation level, orauxiliary sensor data. In one implementation, the warning can pertain toa recommendation (e.g., SPF recommendation, get out of sun, highexposure warning, etc.). The radiation warning can be output 1010 viathe output device. For example, as noted above, the output device can bea display, a speaker or a vibration device. Hence, the warning can beoutput to the user by displaying text or graphics, audio sounds, orphysical actions. Following the output 1010 of the UV radiation warning,the UV monitoring process 1000 can return to repeat the decision 1002and subsequent operations so that UV monitoring can continue.

Although the circuitry in FIGS. 7A-7D and the processing in FIGS. 8-10have been described in the context of monitoring UV radiation, it shouldbe understood that such circuitry and processing are also applicable tomonitoring other types of radiation.

FIG. 11 is a flow diagram of a monitoring process 1100 according tostill yet another embodiment of the invention. The monitoring process1100 is, for example, performed by a monitoring system embedded withinand/or tethered to a pair of glasses. The monitoring system can, forexample, represent any of the UV monitoring systems 300, 400, 450, 460,470, 600, 700, 750, 770 or 770′ discussed above with reference to FIGS.3, 4A-4D, 6 and 7A-7D.

The monitoring process 1100 begins with a decision 1002 that determineswhether adequate solar energy (e.g., light) is available. In oneimplementation, the monitoring system performing the monitoring process1100 includes at least one solar cell or at least one phototransistor,and the solar cell or phototransistor can be used to determine whetherthere is adequate solar energy available. Hence, when the decision 1102determines that adequate solar energy is not available, then themonitoring process 1100 is deactivated, blocked or effectively notinvoked. In this embodiment, solar cells can provide adequate solarenergy for the monitoring process 1000 to be performed. In anotherembodiment, a phototransistor can detect whether adequate solar energyis available. In other words, the glasses operate in the presence ofsufficient light. When the decision 1102 determines that adequate solarenergy is not present, then the monitoring process 1100 awaits adequatesolar energy. In this condition, the monitoring system can be in a lowpower condition (e.g., essentially disabled).

Once the decision 1102 determines that adequate solar energy isavailable, then the monitoring process 1100 proceeds. Here, themonitoring process 1100 can optionally determine whether the glasses arebeing worn. In any case, as shown in FIG. 11, when the decision 1102determines that adequate solar energy is available, a decision 1104determines whether the glasses are being worn by a user. When thedecision 1104 determines that the glasses are not being worn or when thedecision 1102 determines that adequate solar energy is not present, thena radiation level previously acquired through accumulation (describedbelow) can be slowly dispersed 1106. In one embodiment, the rate ofdispersal is substantially slower that the rate of accumulation of theUV radiation level. For example, in a case where the radiation beingmonitored is UV radiation, the UV radiation level might accumulate tocause a UV radiation warning after 1-2 hours of extensive UV or sunlightexposure, but might take 6-12 hours to disperse the previouslyaccumulated radiation level after the UV radiation is removed. Hence,the accumulation of radiation can gracefully tolerate interruption ofradiation, such as when going indoors (e.g., within a building) for aperiod of time (e.g., 15 minutes, 1 hour, 4 hours, etc.) when UVradiation is being monitored. Following the block 1106, the monitoringprocess 1100 returns to repeat the decision 1102 and subsequent blocks.

On the other hand, when the decision 1104 determines that the glassesare being worn, a radiation level is acquired 1108. For example, theradiation level can be acquired by a detector (e.g., UV detector). Next,the radiation level is accumulated 1110. Here, the radiation levelsacquired can be accumulated so that radiation information can be basedon an accumulation of radiation that has been acquired while the glassesare being worn.

Thereafter, a decision 1112 determines whether a radiation warning isneeded. Here, the accumulated radiation level can be compared with athreshold to determine whether the accumulated radiation is excessive.In one implementation, the threshold can vary with, or be personalizedto, different users, such as based on skin type, age or skin condition.In another implementation, a plurality of threshold levels can be used,e.g., to provide a progression of radiation levels (and notifications).A user of the glasses can input data (e.g., skin type, preferences) byway of at least one switch or button. Alternatively, the glasses can usepredetermined settings and offer several versions (e.g., differentglasses for different skin types).

When the decision 1112 determines that the radiation warning is notneeded, then the monitoring process 1100 deactivates 1114 the radiationwarning. Alternatively, when the decision 1112 determines that theradiation warning is needed, then the monitoring process 1100 activates1116 the radiation warning. The warning can be varied or personalized tothe user, and/or can vary depending on the user, user preference,radiation level, or auxiliary sensor data. The radiation warning can beproduced at an output device. For example, as noted above, the outputdevice can be a display, a speaker or a vibration device. In oneimplementation, the warning is a graphical symbol or text that signalsthe user of the glasses that they have received a significant amount ofradiation. Following the deactivation 1114 and the activation 1116, themonitoring process 1100 can return to repeat the decision 1102 andsubsequent operations so that monitoring can continue.

The radiation warning can remain active anywhere from a brief period tocontinuously depending on the type of warning being provided, userpreference or manufacturer setting. For example, an audio alert mightsound for a few seconds, while a displayed alert might remain on for alonger duration. The radiation warning can be output differentlydepending on the power situation of the monitoring system. If themonitoring system is being solar powered, then the radiation warning canremain active until deactivated. However, when the monitoring system isbeing battery powered, the radiation warning might be active for only abrief period.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram of electronic circuitry 1200 according to oneembodiment of the invention. The electronic circuitry 1200 can, forexample, be used for at least a part of the electronic circuitry 302shown in FIGS. 3, 4A, 4B, 4D and 6. The electronic circuitry 1200includes a radiation detector 1202 that outputs a radiation level signaldependent on an amount of radiation impinging on the radiation detector1202. For example, in the case where radiation from sunlight is beingmonitored, the radiation detector 1202 can principally detectultraviolet or infrared radiation. In another example, in the case whereradiation from x-ray machines or nuclear materials is being monitored,the radiation detector can principally detect gamma radiation. Aradiation accumulator 1204 receives the radiation signal level andaccumulates the radiation signal level to produce an accumulatedradiation level. A level comparator 1206 can then compare theaccumulated radiation level to a threshold level (TH). The thresholdlevel can be fixed, selected or determined. When the accumulatedradiation level exceeds the threshold level, then an output driver 1208operates to output one or more signals to cause an output device toproduce an output. The output can be visual, audio, and/or physical. Thethreshold can be varied or personalized to the user, and/or can varydepending on the user. The threshold can also depend on or vary in viewof one or more of user preferences, position (e.g., closer equator),intensity level of radiation, user characteristics (e.g., skin color ortype), or auxiliary sensor data, etc. The level comparator 1206 can alsouse one or more threshold levels.

In one embodiment, the threshold used by the level comparator 1206 cancorrespond to a recommended daily dosage of such radiation. For example,if the radiation detector 1202 is primarily detecting UV radiation, therecommended daily dosage would pertain to UV radiation.

FIG. 13A is a schematic diagram of an electronic circuit 1300 for aradiation detection system according to one embodiment of the invention.The electronic circuit 1300 is, for example, suitable for use as theelectronic circuitry 1200 shown in FIG. 12.

The electronic circuit 1300 includes a phototransistor 1302 and aresistor (R1) 1304 coupled in series between a supply voltage (Vs) andground. In this embodiment, the phototransistor 1302 implements aradiation detector. As radiation (of an appropriate frequency range)strikes the phototransistor 1302, a voltage V1 appears at a first nodeconnecting the phototransistor 1302 to the resistor (R1) 1304. Thevoltage V1 induces a current I1 that passes through a diode 1305 and aresistor (R2) 1306. A voltage V2 at a second node then begins to risefrom ground level to the level of V1 by the charging of a capacitor (C1)1308 at a rate dependent on the amount of the current I1 and thecapacitance of the capacitor (C1) 1308 and the resistances of theresistors (R2 and R3) 1306 and 1310, respectively. A Schmitt triggerinverter 1312 couples to the second node and receives the voltage V2 atits input. When the voltage V2 exceeds the turn-on voltage for theinverter 1312, the output of the inverter 1312 goes low and couples to athird node via a diode 1314. At this point, the low voltage (V3) at thethird node couples to an input of a Schmitt trigger inverter 1316, whichoutputs a high voltage (V4) at a fourth node which charges a resistor(R4) 1318 and capacitor (C2) 1320. The resistor (R4) 1318 couplesbetween the third and fourth nodes. The capacitor (C2) couples betweenthe third node and ground. Once the voltage V3 has risen sufficiently,the inverter 1316 switches to output a low voltage (V4), therebydischarging the capacitor (C2) 1320. Hence, the inverter 1316, theresister (R4) 1318 and the capacitor (C2) 1320 form an oscillator. Theoutputs for the electronic circuit 1300 are complementary, a positiveoutput from the fourth node and a negative output from an inverter 1322coupled to the fourth node. These complementary outputs are applicablefor driving a LCD type display device.

Although not shown in FIG. 13A, the electronic circuit 1300 canoptionally further include a reset switch. For example, if provided, thereset switch can be coupled between the second node and ground. Whilethe reset switch is normally open, when closed the reset switchdischarges the capacitor (C1) 1308. As an example, the reset switch canbe implemented by a push button switch. Although the electronic circuit1300 can automatically reset after no significant UV radiation ispresent for a period of time (such as noted above), the reset switchpermits a user to manually reset the electronic circuit 1300 so as toclear and restart monitoring (e.g., accumulation) of radiation.

The electronic circuit 1300 can facilitate low power operation. In oneimplementation, the resistor (R1) 1304 can be made large. In anotherimplementation, power dissipated by resistor (R1) can be conserved byusing a radiation detector, such as a phototransistor, that isresponsive to the radiation of interest but with very low sensitivity tothe radiation of interest. In the case of a phototransistor, sensitivitycan be reduced by covering the phototransistor with a layer ofaluminized Mylar. Aluminized Mylar can attenuate light passing throughit by a factor of approximately one-thousand (1000). In still anotherimplementation, the supply voltage (Vs) supplied to the phototransistor1302 can be periodic, so that power consumed by the resister (R1),which, in this case, need not be a high resistance, is substantiallyreduced, yet the phototransistor 1302 has an extended dynamic range. Thesensitivity of the radiation measurement can also be adjusted bychanging the duty-cycle of the periodic supply voltage (Vs). Thesevarious implementations for low power operation can be used singly or incombination.

FIG. 13B is a schematic diagram of a periodic supply voltage circuit1350 according to one embodiment of the invention. The periodic supplyvoltage circuit 1350 is, for example, suitable for use to provide asupply voltage (Vs) to the electronic circuit 1300 for a radiationdetection system. In this embodiment the supply voltage (Vs) isperiodic. In this example, the supply voltage (Vs) uses pulse-widthmodulation. The periodic supply voltage circuit 1350 includes a Schmitttrigger inverter 1352 that is powered by a power supply (Vcc) when theradiation detection system is operating (i.e., turned-on). At thispoint, the voltage (V5) at an input node is assumed low and couples toan input of the Schmitt trigger inverter 1352, which outputs a highvoltage (V6) at an output node which charges a capacitor (C3) 1360 viaresistor (R5) 1354 and resistor (R6) 1358. A diode 1356 conducts duringcharging, but blocks during discharging. The resistor (R5) 1354 couplesbetween the input and output nodes. The diode 1356 and the resistor (R6)1358 are coupled in series between the input and output nodes. Thecapacitor (C3) 1360 couples between the input node and ground. Once thevoltage (V5) at the input node has risen sufficiently, the inverter 1352switches to output a low voltage (V6) at the output node, therebydischarging the capacitor (C3) 1360 via the resistor (R5) 1354. Hence,the periodic supply voltage circuit 1350 forms an oscillator. The outputfor the periodic supply voltage circuit 1350 at the output node (V6) canbe the supply voltage (Vs) for the radiation detection system. Given thediode 1356, the supply voltage (Vs) is in the high state for a shorttime and in the low state for a longer period of time.

Although the resistance and capacitance values for the electroniccircuit 1300 and the periodic supply voltage circuit 1350 can varywidely with implementation and application, some exemplary values are asfollows. For example, for the electronic circuit 1300, the resistor (R1)1304 can be 22 k ohms, the resistor (R4) 1318 can be 330 k ohms, and thecapacitor (C2) 1320 can be 0.1 microfarads (μf). The resistor (R2) 1306and the resistor (R3) 1310 can, for example, be in the range of 1-50Mohms. The capacitor (C1) 1308 can, for example, be in the range of 1-100μf. For example, for the periodic supply voltage circuit 1350, theresistor (R5) 1354 can be 10M ohms, the resistor (R6) 1358 can be 200 kohms, and the capacitor (C3) 1360 can be 0.01 μf.

FIG. 14A is a block diagram of a radiation monitoring system 1400according to one embodiment of the invention. The radiation monitoringsystem 1400 can, for example, be used for the electronic circuitry 302shown in FIGS. 3, 4A, 4B, 4D and 6. The radiation monitoring system 1400includes a radiation detector 1402 that detects impinging radiation,such as ultraviolet radiation, infrared radiation or light, and outputsa radiation indication to a radiation-to-frequency converter 1404. Theradiation indication can represent an amount of radiation impinging onthe radiation detector 1402. The radiation-to-frequency converter 1404converts the radiation indication into a frequency signal. The frequencysignal is supplied to an output manager 1406. The output manager 1406coordinates when an output is to be provided for the radiationmonitoring system 1400. In one embodiment, the output manager 1406determines that an output indication should be provided based on a countor a division with respect to the frequency signal. For example, thegreater the amount of radiation being detected by the radiation detector1402, the greater the frequency of the frequency signal. Hence, whengreater levels of radiation are detected, the output manager 1406 canmore quickly provide an output indication (e.g., signaling substantialradiation exposure) as compared to a situation in which the amount ofradiation being detected by the radiation detector 1402 is substantiallyless.

In any case, when the output manager 1406 determines that an outputindication is to be provided, the output manager 1406 provides an outputsignal to an output driver 1408. The output driver 1408 controls anoutput device so as to produce an output indication. The outputindication can be textual (including numerical) and/or graphical. Forexample, as a numerical output, the output could indicate a percentageof acceptable radiation for a day that has been already detected. Asanother example, the output could be a graphical output that pertains asymbol or a graph. In one embodiment, the output provided by the outputdevice is a visual output on a display device. However, in general, theoutput can be visual and/or audio. For example, examples of audiooutputs are beeping sounds, synthesized speech, or prerecorded audiomessages.

The output manager 1406 receives the frequency signal from theradiation-to-frequency converter 1404 and can determines when an outputindication should be provided. In one implementation, the output manager1406 can include a divider that divides down the frequency signal fromthe radiation-to-frequency converter 1404 such that the output manager1406 causes the output driver 1408 to produce an output indication basedon an amount of radiation that has effectively been detected. As anexample, a predetermined amount of radiation to be effectively detectedcan be controlled by altering the amount of division provided by thedivider. Hence, the amount of division utilized by the output manager1406 can correspond to a radiation threshold amount, such as arecommended daily dosage of ultraviolet radiation. The amount ofdivision provided by the divider can also depend on or vary in view ofone or more of user preferences, position (e.g., proximity to equator),intensity level of radiation, user characteristics (e.g., skin color ortype), or auxiliary sensor data, etc. Alternatively, the output manager1406 can include a counter that counts based on the frequency signalfrom the radiation-to-frequency converter 1404, wherein the amount ofcount utilized by the output manager 1406 can also correspond to aradiation threshold amount.

In an alternative embodiment, the radiation-to-frequency converter 1404can instead be a radiation-to-pulse-width converter. Theradiation-to-pulse-width converter can convert the radiation indicationinto a pulse-width signal. The pulse-width signal is supplied to anoutput manager 1406. The output manager 1406 arranges when an output isto be provided for the radiation monitoring system 1400. In oneembodiment, the output manager 1406 determines that an output indicationshould be provided based on the width of the pulse of the pulse-widthsignal.

FIG. 14B is a block diagram of a radiation monitoring system 1420according to another embodiment of the invention. The radiationmonitoring system 1420 is, for example, a detailed embodiment of theradiation monitoring system 1400 illustrated in FIG. 14A.

The radiation monitoring system 1420 includes a sensor 1422. The sensor1422 senses radiation, such as ultraviolet radiation or infraredradiation. The sensor 1422 outputs a radiation indication to aradiation-to-frequency converter 1424. The radiation-to-frequencyconverter 1424 outputs a frequency signal φ₁ to a divider 1426. Thedivider 1426 divides the frequency signal φ₁ and outputs a dividedfrequency signal Q_(N). The divided frequency signal Q_(N) is suppliedto a latch 1428. As shown in FIG. 14B, in one embodiment, the latch 1428can be a set-reset type of latch. The output of the latch 1428 is anoutput signal (OUT). The output signal (OUT) is supplied to a LCD driver1430. When the output signal (OUT) is high, the LCD driver 1430 causesan output indication to be provided on a LCD display 1432.

Still further, the radiation monitoring system 1420 includes a powersupply 1434 that supplies power to various components under theradiation monitoring system 1420. The power supply 1434 outputs apositive voltage (V+), a ground signal (GND), and a negative voltage(B−). The signals provided by the power supply 1434 are supplied tovarious components of the radiation monitoring system 1420 as shown inFIG. 14B. In addition, the radiation monitoring system 1420 includes afirst switch (S1) and a second switch (S2). The first switch (S1) is areset switch that is coupled to the divider 1426 and the latch 1428.When the first switch (S1) is closed a reset operation occurs so thatthe divider 1426 and the latch 1428 are reset. Hence, any accumulateddata in these components is cleared. As a result, radiation monitoringcan be cleared and restarted by closing and then opening the firstswitch (S1). The second switch (S2) is coupled to the power supply 1434and serves as an on-off switch. When the second switch (S2) is closed(i.e., “switched on”), the power supply 1434 outputs various voltagesignals. On the other hand, when the second switch (S2) is open (i.e.,“switched off”), the power supply 1434 does not output the voltagelevels.

As noted above, the radiation monitoring system 1420 is an example of amore detailed embodiment of the radiation monitoring system 1400illustrated in FIG. 14A. As such, the divider 1426 and the latch 1428together can correspond to the output manager 1406 in one embodiment,and the LCD driver 1430 can corresponds to the output driver 1408 in oneembodiment.

FIG. 14C is a schematic diagram of a radiation-to-frequency converter1440 and a sensor according to one embodiment of the invention. Theradiation-to-frequency converter 1440 represents a detailed embodimentfor the radiation-to-frequency converter 1424 illustrated in FIG. 14B.As shown in FIG. 14C, the sensor includes a phototransistor 1442 thatserves as a radiation sensor. In particular, the phototransistor 1442can be sensitive to a particular wavelengths of radiation, such asultraviolet radiation or infrared radiation. As radiation impinges onthe phototransistor 1442, a voltage dependent upon the amount ofradiation impinging on the phototransistor 1442 is produced at a firstnode 1444. The first node 1444 is coupled to ground by a capacitor 1446.A Schmitt trigger inverter 1448 couples between the first mode 1444 anda second node 1450. The output of the radiation-to-frequency converter1440 is provided at the second node 1450 and pertains to the frequencysignal φ₁. The phototransistor 1442 is also coupled between the firstnode 1444 and the second node 1450. In addition, a series combination ofa resistor 1452 and a diode 1454 are also coupled between the first node1444 and the second node 1450. The frequency signal φ₁ being produced atthe second node 1450 has a frequency that is dependent upon theresistance of the resistor 1452, the capacitance of the capacitor 1446,the sensitivity of the phototransistor 1442, and the amount of radiationimpinging upon the phototransistor 1442. If the first node 1444 is low,the second node 1452 is high. In such a situation, radiation impingingupon the phototransistor 1442 causes the first node 1444 to transitionto a “high” level, which then in turn causes the second node 1450 totransition to a “low” level. Subsequently, from such a state, the firstnode 1444 is discharged to a “low” state in accordance with a timeconstant set by the resistor 1452 and the capacitor 1446. The cyclingcontinues so that the resulting frequency signal φ₁ is produced. As anexample, the resistance of the resistor 1452 can be 10 k ohms, and thecapacitance of the capacitor 1446 can be 0.1 microfarads, and theresulting frequency for the resulting frequency signal φ₁ is then aboutin a range of about 0-400 Hertz. The Schmitt trigger inverter 1448 canbe implemented by a CD74HC14 chip, for example. Hence, theradiation-to-frequency converter 1440 can produce a digital output whichhas a frequency dependent on the amount of impinging radiation. Thedigital output is also produced in a power-efficient manner. In oneembodiment, power-efficiency results because the Schmitt triggerinverter 1448 is power efficient, the capacitor 1446 is rather small,and the resulting frequency signal φ₁ is low. Power consumption can befurther reduced by only periodically supplying power to some or all ofthe components of the radiation-to-frequency converter 1440, or moregenerally, the radiation monitoring system 1400.

FIG. 14D is a schematic diagram of a latch 1450 according to oneembodiment of the invention. The latch 1450 represents a detailedembodiment for the latch 1428 shown in FIG. 14B. The latch 1450 includesa first NAND gate 1452 and a second NAND gate 1454. These NAND gates1452 and 1454 are connected as shown in FIG. 14D.

FIG. 14E is a schematic diagram of a LCD driver 1460 according to oneembodiment of the invention. The LCD driver 1460 represents a detailedembodiment for the LCD driver 1430 illustrated in FIG. 14B. The LCDdriver 1460 includes a diode 1462 having a cathode terminal thatreceives the enable signal (EN) from the latch 1450, and an anodeterminal that couples to a first node 1464. The LCD driver 1460 alsoincludes a capacitor 1466 that couples between the first node 1464 andground. Additionally, the LCD driver 1460 includes a first Schmitttrigger inverter 1468 coupled between the first node 1464 and a secondnode 1470, and a second Schmitt trigger inverter 1472 connected to thesecond node 1470. In addition, a resistor 1474 couples the first node1464 and the second node 1470. The output of the LCD driver 1460 isprovided from the second node 1470 and from the output of the secondSchmitt trigger inverter 1472. These outputs are the designed to excitethe appropriate one or more LCD elements of the LCD display 1432 so asto produce the desired output indication. As an example, the resistanceof the resistor 1474 can be 330 k ohms, and the capacitance of thecapacitor 1446 can be 0.1 microfarads, and the resulting frequency forthe outputs (when enabled) is then about 200 Hertz. The Schmitt triggerinverters can be implemented by a CD74HC14 chip, for example. It shouldbe noted that LCD driver 1460 is designed to excite a single LCD elementor a single group of LCD elements. Hence, in cases in which the outputindication is to excite multiple LCD elements at different times,additional circuitry would be required.

FIG. 14F is a schematic diagram of a power supply 1475 according to oneembodiment of the invention. The power supply 1475 represents a detailedembodiment of the power supply 1434 illustrated in FIG. 14B.

The power supply 1475 includes a battery 1476 that is coupled between apositive voltage terminal (V+) then a negative voltage terminal (B−).The power supply 1475 also includes a transistor 1477. In oneembodiment, the transistor 1477 is an enhancement type n-channel MOSFET.The drain terminal of the transistor 1477 is coupled to the groundterminal of the power supply 1475, and a source terminal of thetransistor 1477 is coupled to the negative voltage terminal (B−). A gateterminal of the transistor 1477 couples to a first node 1478. The firstnode 1478 is coupled to the negative voltage terminal (B−) by acapacitor 1479-1, and is coupled to the positive voltage terminal (V+)by a resistor 1479-2 and a switch S2 a. The switch S2 a is closed whenthe power supply 1475 is “on.” The power supply 1475 also includes aswitch S2 b that is closed when the power supply 1475 is “off.” Hence,only one of the switches S2 a and S2 b are closed at any one point. Whenthe switch S2 b is closed, the first node 1478 is coupled to thenegative voltage terminal (B−) so that the transistor 1477 is “off.” Onthe other hand, when the switch S2 a is closed, the first node 1478 isable to hold a positive voltage which activates the transistor 1477.When the transistor 1477 is activated, the negative voltage provided onthe negative voltage terminal (B−) is provided at the ground (GND)terminal. As an example, the resistance of the resistor 1479-2 can be100 k ohms, and the capacitance of the capacitor 1479-1 can be 0.01microfarads, and the battery can provide 3 Volts (e.g., 35 mA-H). Thetransistor 1477 can be implemented by a 2N708 chip, for example.

In one embodiment, a radiation detector can be mounted on a substrateand couple to other circuitry so that radiation monitoring can beperformed. The manner in which the radiation detector is mounted to thesubstrate can vary with implementation. In one implementation, thesubstrate is a printed circuit board (PCB) that supports not only theradiation detector but also the other circuitry. FIGS. 14G-14Iillustrate examples of a few possible implementations in the case wherethe radiation detector is a UV detector; however, other implementationscan be utilized.

FIG. 14G is a cross-sectional view of a UV detector arrangement 1480according to one embodiment of the invention. The UV detectorarrangement 1480 is formed on a printed circuit board 1481 that containsa hole (or opening) 1482. A phototransistor 1483 is placed in the hole1482. A base 1484 for the phototransistor 1483 is used to electricallyconnect the phototransistor 1483 to the printed circuit board 1481 viasolder 1485. A film of aluminized Mylar 1486 is attached to the top ofthe printed circuit board 1481 at the hole 1482. The aluminized Mylar1486 serves as a sensitivity reducer since it generally attenuates theradiation (e.g., UV or IR radiation) that impinges on thephototransistor 1483. The aluminized Mylar 1486 can be attached to theprinted circuit board 1481 by an adhesive, such as epoxy. Attached tothe top of the aluminized Mylar 1486 is an aluminum sheet 1487 with anopening 1488. The opening 1488 corresponds to, but has a substantiallysmaller diameter than the hole 1482. Hence, the aluminum sheet 1487further restricts radiation (i.e., restricts volume of radiation)impinging on the phototransistor 1483. An optical filter 1489 is placedover the aluminum sheet 1487 at the vicinity of the hole 1482. As anexample, the optical filter 1489 primarily passes UV radiation. The UVradiation then is limited by the opening 1488 in the aluminum sheet1487, attenuated by the aluminized Mylar 1486, and then the attenuatedUV radiation is sensed by the phototransistor 1483. The aluminum sheet1487 and the optical filter 1489 can be attached with an adhesive, suchas epoxy.

Optionally, the back side of the printed circuit board 1481 at thevicinity of the phototransistor 1483 can attenuate or block radiationthat might otherwise impinge on and be sensed by the phototransistor1483. As shown in FIG. 14G, an aluminum sheet 1491 can be attached tothe back side of the printed circuit board 1481 behind thephototransistor 1483. The aluminum sheet 1491 can be attached with anadhesive, such as epoxy.

Finally, the top of the UV detector arrangement 1480, except for theoptical filter 1489, can be encapsulated by a top encapsulant 1490. Forexample, the top encapsulant 1490 can be epoxy. The bottom of the UVdetector arrangement 1480 can be encapsulated by a bottom encapsulant1492. For example, the bottom encapsulant 1492 can be epoxy. The epoxyused for the encapsulant 1490 or 1492 can be opaque (e.g., block epoxy)to further assist in blocking radiation.

FIG. 14H is a cross-sectional view of a UV detector arrangement 1480′according to one embodiment of the invention. The UV detectorarrangement 1480′ is formed on a printed circuit board 1481 thatcontains a hole (or opening) 1482. A phototransistor 1483 is placed inthe hole 1482. A base 1484 for the phototransistor 1483 is used toelectrically connect the phototransistor 1483 to the printed circuitboard 1481 via solder 1485. A film of aluminized Mylar 1486 is attachedto the top of the printed circuit board 1481 at the hole 1482. Thealuminized Mylar 1486 serves as a sensitivity reducer since it generallyattenuates the radiation that impinges on the phototransistor 1483. Thealuminized Mylar 1486 can be attached to the printed circuit board 1481by foil tape 1493 (that uses an adhesive). The foil tape 1493 does notcover the region of the aluminized Mylar 1486 above the phototransistor1483. The foil tape 1493 further restricts radiation (i.e., restrictsvolume of radiation) impinging on the phototransistor 1483. Attached tothe top of the foil tape 1493 is an optical filter 1489 at the vicinityof the hole 1482. Foil tape 1494 (that uses an adhesive) can be used tohold the optical filter 1489 in position. The foil tape 1494 may alsoserve to restrict radiation impinging on the phototransistor 1483. As anexample, the optical filter 1489 primarily passes UV radiation. The UVradiation can then be limited by the opening in the foil tapes 1493 and1494 as well as the aluminized Mylar 1486. A cavity 1497 in the hole1482 above the phototransistor 1483 can be filled with an epoxy, such asclear epoxy.

Optionally, the back side of the printed circuit board 1481 at thevicinity of the phototransistor 1483 can attenuate or block radiationthat might otherwise impinge on and be sensed by the phototransistor1483. As shown in FIG. 14H, a foil tape 1496 can be attached to the backside of the printed circuit board 1481 behind the phototransistor 1483.A bottom cavity 1498 between the back side of the printed circuit board1481 and the foil tape 1496 can be filled with an opaque substance,e.g., block epoxy, to further assist in attenuating or blockingradiation.

FIG. 14I is a cross-sectional view of a UV detector arrangement 1480″according to one embodiment of the invention. The UV detectorarrangement 1480″ shown in FIG. 14I is generally similar to the UVdetector arrangement 1480′ shown in FIG. 14H, except that the UVdetector arrangement 1480″ does not use the optical filter 1489 or thefoil tape 1494. In such an embodiment, an optical filter (such as theoptical filter 1489) is not required because the spectral response ofthe phototransistor 1483′ is appropriate without filtering or because acoating provided on the phototransistor 1483′ or its housing (package)effectuates similar filtering and obviates the need for a separateoptical filter (such as the optical filter 1489).

The phototransistor 1483 or 1483′ shown in FIGS. 14G-14I can be aphotodiode as noted elsewhere in this patent application. In addition,the phototransistor 1483 or 1483′ (or photodiode) can have a heightgreater than the thickness of the printed circuit board 1481.

FIG. 14J is a partial block diagram of a radiation monitoring system3000 according to one embodiment of the invention. The radiationmonitoring system 3000 represents one implementation of a portion of theradiation monitoring system 1400 illustrated in FIG. 14A or a portion ofthe radiation monitoring system 1420 illustrated in FIG. 14B. Inparticular, the radiation monitoring system 3000 provides reduced poweroperation. The reduced power operation can substantially extend batterylife. In this embodiment, a radiation-to-frequency converter 3002receives a low duty cycle signal V_(D). The low duty cycle signal V_(D)causes the radiation-to-frequency to periodically operate briefly. Theduty cycle and frequency for the low duty cycle signal V_(D) can varywith implementation.

FIG. 14K is a schematic diagram of a radiation-to-frequency converter3010 and a sensor according to one embodiment of the invention. Theradiation-to-frequency converter 3010 is generally similar to theradiation-to-frequency converter 1440 illustrated in FIG. 14C. However,the radiation-to-frequency converter 3010 uses a photodiode 3012 insteadof the phototransistor 1442. Also, the resistor 1452 and the diode 1454illustrated in FIG. 14C are typically not needed as the photodiode 3012is a diode and often includes an internal resistance. One example ofsuch a photodiode is Everlight PD-15-22 (another is Everlight PD-93-21),though various different photodiodes can be used, and an optical filtermay be used with the photodiode. Additionally, theradiation-to-frequency converter 3010 also include a transistor 3014.The transistor 3014 is controlled by the low duty cycle signal V_(D)such that the low power operation results. Namely, only when the lowduty cycle signal V_(D) is “low” is significant power being consumed bythe radiation monitoring system to monitor radiation. As a result, theradiation monitoring system can operate under battery power for extendeddurations.

FIG. 14L is a diagram of a representative waveform 3020 of a low dutycycle signal V_(D). The low duty cycle signal V_(D) is “low” much lessthan it is “high.” In this embodiment, radiation monitoring occurs whenlow duty cycle signal V_(D) is “low.” Hence, the on time for a periodiclow duty cycle signal V_(D) is denoted t_(ON) and the off time isdenoted t_(OFF). As an example, the on time t_(ON) can be 0.5 seconds,while the off time t_(OFF) can be 128 seconds (which is a duty cycle of256 to 1.

FIG. 14M is a schematic diagram of a power supply 3040 according to oneembodiment of the invention. The power supply 3040 represents a detailedembodiment for a power supply that could be an alternative design forthe power supply 1434 illustrated in FIG. 14B.

The power supply 3040 includes a battery 3042 that is coupled between apositive voltage terminal (B+) and ground terminal (GND). The powersupply 3040 includes an on/off switch S3. When the switch S3 is closedthe power supply is turned on. In one implementation, the switch S3 is apush button switch that is normally open (i.e., not close). The powersupply 3040 also includes a resistor 3044 and a transistor 3046. In oneembodiment, the transistor 3046 is an enhancement type p-channel MOSFET.The drain terminal of the transistor 3046 is coupled to the groundterminal (GND) of the power supply 3040 via a resistor 3048, and asource terminal of the transistor 3046 is coupled to the positivevoltage terminal (B+) of the battery 3042. A gate terminal of thetransistor 3046 is coupled to a first node 3049. The first node 3049 iscoupled to the positive voltage terminal (B+) by the resistor 3044, andcan be coupled to the ground terminal (GND) via the switch S3. The powersupply 3040 also includes a transistor 3050, having a gate terminalcoupled to a second node 3051, a source terminal connected to the groundterminal (GND), and a drain terminal connected to a third node 3052. Inone embodiment, the transistor 3050 is an enhancement type n-channelMOSFET. Further, the power supply 3040 includes a transistor 3054, aresistor 3056 and a capacitor 3058. In one embodiment, the transistor3054 is an enhancement type p-channel MOSFET. The gate terminal of thetransistor 3054 connects to the third node 3052, the source terminal ofthe transistor 3054 connects to the positive voltage terminal (B+), andthe drain terminal of the transistor 3054 connects to a voltage outputterminal (V+). The resistor 3056 and the capacitor 3058 are connected inparallel between the positive voltage terminal (B+) and the third node3052.

The operation of the power supply 3040 can be briefly explained asfollows. When the switch S3 is press (momentarily), the transistor 3046pulls the second node 3051 to approximately the positive voltageterminal (B+), which activates the transistor 3050. When the transistor3050 is activated, the third node is pulled to approximately ground,which activates the transistor 3054. When the transistor 3054 isactivated, the voltage output terminal (V+) is capable of outputtingpower for use by other circuitry. Since the switch S3 is soon released,the transistors 3046 and 3050 deactivate. However, the transistor 3054remains on for a period of time determined by a time constant determinedby the resistor 3056 and the capacitor 3058. Hence, during the period oftime, charge from the capacitor 3058 is slowly discharged. Oncesubstantially discharged, the transistor 3054 deactivates, thus ceasingoutput of any power to the other circuitry. In effect, the power supply3040 automatically turns off after the period of time. As an example,the period of time can be 12 hours (e.g., representing daily usage of aradiation monitoring system). The power supply 3040 can also receive areset signal that serves to restart any “auto-off” timing that may beused.

It should be noted that a power supply for a radiation monitoring systemcan implemented in various ways. The power supply 1475 illustrated inFIG. 14F uses an “on” switch and an “off” switch. The power supply 3040in FIG. 14M uses a single “on” switch (e.g., push button) and an“auto-off” feature. In still another embodiment, the power supply, andthus the radiation monitoring system, can always be powered on. WithCMOS transistor devices, the power consumption is relatively low suchthat a radiation monitoring system could be battery powered for anextended period of time without the need to recharge or replace thebattery (i.e., long battery life). When the radiation monitoring is onlybriefly performed periodically, such as discussed above with referenceto FIGS. 14J, 14K and 14L, the power consumption is particularly low andthe battery life can be particularly long.

FIG. 14N is a diagram of a binary counter 4000 according to oneembodiment of the invention. The binary counter 4000 is, for example,suitable for use as at least a portion of the divider 1426 illustratedin FIG. 14B. As an example, the binary counter 4000 can be a 26-bitcounter. The inputs to the binary counter 4000 include the frequencysignal φ₁ from a radiation-to-frequency converter (e.g.,radiation-to-frequency converter 1424), a reset signal (such as from aswitch S1), and an enable signal. The switch S1 is, for example, apush-button type switch. The binary counter 4000 can have a plurality ofoutput lines (e.g., twenty-six (26) output lines), of which five suchlines Q₁₉ through Q₂₄ are illustrated. These output are representativeoutputs that might be utilized by subsequent circuitry to control anoutput device. However, it should be understood that other output linescould alternatively be used. The enable input to the binary counter 4000permits the binary counter to count when “high” but stops the binarycounter 4000 from counting when “low.”

FIG. 14O is a block diagram of latch-driver circuitry 4100 according toone embodiment of the invention. In one embodiment, the latch-drivercircuitry 4100 can correspond to the latch 1428, the LCD driver 1430 andthe LCD display 1432 as shown in FIG. 14B.

In this embodiment, the latch-driver circuitry 4100 has the capabilityto separately drive a plurality of different segments. These segmentscan be segments of a LCD display and can be combined to form symbols orcharts. For example, in one embodiment, the LCD segments can be utilizedto form a bar graph output.

The latch-driver circuitry 4100 includes a latch 4102 that receives aninput associated with output Q₁₉ from a divider (e.g., the binarycounter 4000). The output of the latch 4102 is supplied to a LCD driver4104. The LCD driver 4104 includes NAND gates 4106 and 4108. The outputsof the NAND gates 4106 and 4108 are supplied to a LCD segment-1 4110.The LCD driver 4104 also includes frequency signals φ₂ and/φ₂ from anoscillator 4112.

The latch-driver circuitry 4100 further includes a latch 4114, a LCDdriver 4116 and a LCD segment-2 4418. The latch 4114 receives an inputsignal associated with the output Q₂₀ from the divider (e.g., the binarycounter 4000). Likewise, for one or more other outputs from the divider(e.g., the binary counter 4000), the latch-driver circuitry 4100 caninclude a latch, a LCD driver and a LCD segment. In this regard, theoutput Q_(N) from the divider represents a generic output signal whichis supplied to a latch 4120. The output of the latch 4120 is supplied toa LCD driver 4122. The output of the display driver 4122 is coupled to aLCD segment-N 4124. Additionally, each of the latches 4102, 4114 and4120 receives a reset signal from a switch S1.

Still further, the output Q_(N) is coupled to an enable terminal of thedivider (e.g., the binary counter 4000) via an inverter 4126. When thesignal Q_(N) is high, the LCD segments are fully illuminated; hence, theenable signal output by the inverter 4126 is “low” so that the divider(e.g., the binary counter 4000) is disabled, until reset.

FIG. 14P is a block diagram of driver circuitry 4200 according to oneembodiment of the invention. The driver circuitry 4200 is coupled to oneor more outputs from a divider (e.g., the binary counter 4000). In thisillustrated embodiment, the driver circuitry 4200 couples to the outputsQ₂₀ and Q₂₁.

The driver circuitry 4200 includes a LCD driver 4202 that receives theoutputs Q₂₀ and Q₂₁ from the divider (e.g., the binary counter 4000).These signals Q₂₀ and Q₂₁ are supplied to a NOR gate 4206 whose outputis supplied to NAND gates 4208 and 4210. The outputs of the NAND gates4208 and 4210 are supplied to a LCD graphic segment-1 4204. As shown inFIG. 14P, the LCD graphic segment-1 4204 represents a “happy” smileyface.

Additionally, the output Q₂₀ is supplied to a LCD driver 4212 whoseoutput in turn drives a LCD graphic segment-2 4214. Further, the outputQ₂₁ is supplied to a LCD driver 4216 whose output in turn drives a LCDgraphic segment-3 4218. As shown in FIG. 14P, the LCD graphic segment-24214 is a “neutral” smiley face, and the LCD graphic segment-3 4248 is a“sad” smiley face. It should be understood that various other graphicalsymbols or images can be used in place of smiley faces.

The driver circuitry 4200 also includes an oscillator 4220 that suppliesthe output frequency signals φ₂ and/φ₂ to the LCD drivers 4202, 4212 and4216. The driver circuitry 4200 further includes an inverter 4222coupled to the output Q₂₁. The output of the inverter 4222 is coupled tothe enable terminal of the divider (e.g., the binary counter 4000) sothat the divider (e.g., the binary counter 4000) is stopped once theoutput Q₂₁ is “high.”

FIG. 14Q is a block diagram of driver circuitry 4300 according toanother embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, the output is anumerical value. In one embodiment, the driver circuitry 4300 cancorrespond to the latch 1428, the LCD driver 1430 and the LCD display1432 as shown in FIG. 14B.

In this embodiment, the driver circuitry 4300 has the capability toseparately drive a plurality of different segments. These segments aresegments of a LCD display and can be combined to form numerical values.For example, in one embodiment, the segments can be utilized to outputnumerical values from 0-9. In other embodiments, the range of numericaloutputs could be more or less than 0 through 9.

The driver circuitry 4300 receives a plurality of outputs from a divider(e.g., the binary counter 4000), such as outputs Q₁₉, Q₂₀, Q₂₁ and Q₂₂.These outputs are supplied to a BCD-to-7 segment converter 4302. Theoutput of the converter 4302 is supplied to a 7-segment LCD driver 4304.The 7-segment LCD driver 4304 couples to a 7-segment display 4306. Here,the outputs from the divider (e.g., the binary counter 4000) areconverted such that a numerical range is output on the 7-segment display4306. For example, the 7-segment display 4306 can display a number from0 to 9 indicating a quantity or intensity of radiation. A NAND gate 4308is coupled to the output Q₁₉ and the output Q₂₂ so as to decode a valueof “9” at the outputs and cause the enable signal to go “low”, therebyceasing operation of the divider (e.g., binary counter 4000) when suchreaches its maximum value.

The radiation monitoring system can also be implemented by primarilydigital design. FIG. 14R is a block diagram of a radiation monitoringsystem 4400 according to another embodiment of the invention. Theradiation monitoring system 4400 uses a microcontroller 4402 and can beconsidered a primarily digital implementation. As an example, theradiation monitoring system 4400 can implement functions similar to theradiation monitoring system 1400 shown in FIG. 14A as well as theradiation monitoring system 1420 shown in FIG. 14B, using eitherradiation-to-frequency techniques or, alternatively,radiation-to-pulse-width techniques. However, the flexibility providedby the digital implementation is not limited to implementing theseparticular techniques.

In addition to the microcontroller 4402, the radiation monitoring system4400 includes a battery 4404 and a capacitor 4406. The battery 4404provides power to the microcontroller 4402. The capacitor 4406 togetherwith the sensor 1422 and the microcontroller 4402 can be used to monitorradiation. The microcontroller 4402 also determines whether and what todisplay on the LCD panel 1432. In one implementation, themicrocontroller 4402 can include a display driver for driving the LCDpanel 1432. One example of a suitable microcontroller for themicrocontroller 4402 is the 4-bit microcontroller TM8704 available fromTenx Technology, Inc.

In one embodiment, the monitoring of radiation by the radiationmonitoring system 4400 is performed using a pulse-width measurementtechnique. In such an embodiment, periodically, the microcontroller 4402outputs a HIGH signal (digital “1” signal) on an OUTPUT pin and thenmonitors an INPUT pin for a HIGH signal. In one implementation, thesensor 1442 is implemented by a photodiode having its anode connected tothe INPUT pin and its cathode connected to the OUTPUT pin. When thephotodiode detects radiation, the photodiode conducts. Then, the HIGHsignal on the OUTPUT pin propagates to the INPUT pin and charges up thecapacitor 4406. The higher the intensity of the radiation, the fasterthe capacitor 4406 is charged to the HIGH signal. The duration of timebetween the outputting of the HIGH signal on the OUTPUT pin and thedetection of a HIGH signal on the INPUT pin is dependent on theradiation intensity detected by the sensor 1422 and the capacitance ofthe capacitor 4406. The microcontroller 4402 measures this duration oftime. The radiation intensity measured by the microcontroller 4402 isthus inversely proportional to the period of time. An intensity valuecan be computed as a value that is proportional to a constant divided bythe period of time. This intensity value is then accumulated with theprior accumulated intensity value to determine a current accumulatedintensity value. The current accumulated intensity value is thencompared to one or more threshold levels to determine an outputindication to be displayed on the LCD panel 1432. As discussed elsewherein this patent application, the output indication can take manydifferent forms. One exemplary form is a series of increasing bars thatare activated as the accumulated current intensity value exceeds acorresponding series of threshold levels.

In one embodiment, upon turn-on of the radiation monitoring system 4400,such as via a switch (SW1) 4408, the current accumulated intensity valuemaintained by the microcontroller 4402 can be cleared or set to zero.Hence, the turn-on can also act as a reset. In an alternativeembodiment, the current accumulated intensity value could be verygradually reduced to provide a slow discharge of the accumulatedintensity value as a function of time. In the alternative embodiment,the current accumulated intensity value need not be reset.

In one embodiment, to assist in the efficient power utilization of theradiation monitoring system 4400, the microcontroller 4402 can be placedin a low power state when not acquiring a radiation measurement. Thiscan be achieved by a sleep, halt or stop mode or other approaches toreduce power consumption. Then, periodically the microcontroller wouldbriefly operate in an active or non-low power state to acquire andaccumulate the radiation measurement. The periodicity can vary withimplementation, such as from fifteen (15) seconds to fifteen (15)minutes. The greater the period the longer battery life, but the lessthe accuracy. A reasonable solution might use a period on the order ofabout three (3) minutes. In acquiring the period of time (for theradiation measurement), a maximum time-out can be provided so that poweris not wasted. Typically, if the radiation monitoring system ismonitoring light or UV radiation in the dark (or for UV, the environmenthas very low UV, such as at night or inside a car with windows closed),then the time period being measured would time-out. Thereafter, ifdesired, the periodicity by which re-measurement is performed can bemade longer so as to further conserve power. In another embodiment, oncethe radiation monitoring system 4400 is turned-on, it can remain on fora predetermined period of time and then automatically turn itself off(or enter a very low power mode). For example, after being turned-onwith no user input for eight (8) hours, the radiation monitoring system4400 can automatically turn itself off.

The radiation monitoring system 4400 can also include a second switch(SW2) 4410 to enable a user's skin type to be selected. For example, thesecond switch 4410 can provide different switch positions for differentskin types (e.g., light, medium and dark). The switch position canaffect the various threshold levels that are used when comparing withthe current accumulated intensity value to determine an outputindication to be displayed on the LCD panel 1432. As an example, whenthe output indication is presented as a series of five segments (S1-S5)of increasing bars that are activated as the accumulated currentintensity value exceeds a series of threshold levels, Table I providedbelow provides illustrative threshold levels for various skin types.

TABLE I Skin Type S1 S2 S2 S4 S5 Light .25 .5 1 2 4 Medium .5 1 2 4 8Dark 1 2 4 8 16

The times (durations) provided in Table I are in units of hours and aretimes for the various segments of the LCD panel to activate in thepresence of medium-to-light radiation (e.g., UV index (UVI) of about 3).It should be noted that if the radiation present were greater thanmedium-to-light, then these times in Table I would be shorter. Likewise,if the radiation present were less than medium-to-light, then thesetimes in Table I would be longer.

FIGS. 15A, 15B and 15C are radiation detection systems according todifferent embodiments of the invention. These radiation detectionsystems are described in the context of UV radiation detection (whichuses a UV sensor); however, it should be understood that these radiationdetection systems can be also be used to detect other types ofradiation. This can be accomplished, for example, by replacing the UVsensor in the radiation detection system with another type of sensor,such as an infrared sensor or light sensor. These UV detection systemsare compact modular systems. The UV detection systems can be built on asingle substrate that is designed to be inserted into an end product.Since the UV detection system is compact and modular, the end productneed only have an opening, cavity or container to hold or encompass theUV detection system. As such, the end product can quickly be transformedinto an end product capable of providing UV monitoring. Advantageously,in one embodiment, the UV detection system is such that has minimalimpact on design of the end product and no tedious wiring is required.For example, in case in which the end product is an eyeglass frame, atemple of the eyeglass frame can have an opening, cavity or container tohold or encompass the UV detection system, whereby no other changes orcomplications to the eyeglass frames need be imposed. Other suchend-products can include: hats, shoes, tee-shirts, swimming-suits, keyrings, purses, beverage can holders, and other consumer products.

FIG. 15A is a cross-sectional diagram of a UV detection system 1500according to one embodiment of the invention. The UV detection system1500 is build on a substrate 1502. The substrate 1502 can be a printedcircuit board, a flexible tape or film (e.g., Kapton® polyimide film),ceramic, and the like, as known in the art. The UV detection system 1500includes a power source 1504, an UV sensor 1506, electrical circuitry1508 and a display device 1510 (e.g., LCD or LED). The display device1510 is one type of output device, so it should be recognized that otherembodiments can utilize other types of output devices. The power source1504 is, for example, a battery or a solar panel of one or more solarcells. For example, if the power source 1504 is a battery, the batterycan be a coin battery, such as often used in electronic watches. In oneembodiment, the UV sensor 1506 includes a phototransistor. In oneembodiment, the electrical circuitry 1508 includes one or more of analogelectrical components (e.g., capacitors, resistors, diodes, transistors)or integrated circuits. Any such integrated circuits can be provided ina variety of packages, but surface mount packages can help maintain athin profile for the UV detection system 1500. The various electricalcomponents can be wire bonded onto the substrate 1502. For example, aSiC or GaN phototransistor (or photodiode) can serve as at least part ofa UV sensor and be wire bonded onto the substrate 1502 or otherelectrical component. The UV detection system 1500 shows components ofthe system mounted to both sides of the substrate 1502.

FIG. 15B is a cross-sectional diagram of a UV detection system 1520according to another embodiment of the invention. The UV detectionsystem 1520 can utilize the same or similar components as the UVdetection system 1500. However, unlike the UV detection system 1500, theUV detection system 1520 mounts all components on one side of thesubstrate 1502. The effect of the UV detection system 1520 is a thinnermodule, though the substrate 1502 may be longer, as compared to the UVdetection system 1500 shown in FIG. 15A.

FIG. 15C is a cross-sectional diagram of a UV detection system 1540according to another embodiment of the invention. The UV detectionsystem 1540 can utilize the same or similar components as the UVdetection system 1500. However, unlike the UV detection system 1500, theUV detection system 1540 mounts the UV sensor 1506 at or near the edgeof the substrate 1502. This has the potential advantage of positioningthe UV sensor 1506 in a position so that it is better able to receiveincident radiation (e.g., sunlight). The mounting of the UV sensor 1506with respect to the substrate 1502 can also be flexible so that the UVsensor 1506 can be positioned, such as angularly positioned with respectto the substrate 1502 and/or angularly oriented when assembled into anopening, cavity or container of an end-use product. For example, the UVsensor 1506 could be soldered onto the substrate 1502 tipped at anangle. Alternatively, a small prism could be mounted on top of the UVsensor 1506, providing an angled direction of sensitivity. For example,the prism could be formed in place by filling a small, angled, box withclear optical adhesive (such as epoxy) that, when set would provide aprism, efficiently-coupled to the UV sensor 1506.

The UV sensor 1506 utilized in the UV detection systems 1500, 1520 and1540 may use an optical filter with an optical sensor. For example, theoptical sensor can respond to light, UV and infrared radiations, and thesensitivity of the optical filter causes the optical sensor to captureprimarily the target radiation (e.g., UV) wavelengths of light. Hence,the UV sensor 1506 can include such optical filter. For example, theoptical filter can be implemented as a coating on the optical filter.Alternatively, the optical filter can also be a separate component thatis positioned proximate to the optical sensor when the end product isassembled. In other words, an optical filter can be another component ofthe UV detection system, or can be a separate component that is insertedwhen assembled into the end product. In one embodiment, an opticaladhesive can be used to secure the optical filter to the optical sensor.

FIG. 16A is a cross-sectional view of an eyewear housing 1600 containinga UV detection system according to one embodiment of the invention.Here, the eyewear housing 1600 can represent a portion of the templeregion of a frame for a pair of glasses. Typically, the portion of thetemple region is forward of the user's ear (i.e., towards the lensholders) when the glasses are being worn. The UV detection systemcontained within the eyewear housing 1600 is, for example, the UVdetection system 1500 shown in FIG. 15A. The eyewear housing 1600 has anopening, cavity or container to receive the UV detection system. Theeyewear housing 1600 also has a first opening 1602 and a second opening1604. The first opening 1602 is aligned with the power supply 1504,which would in such an embodiment be a solar panel. Hence, the firstopening 1602 can allow light to impinge on the solar panel. The secondopening 1604 is aligned with the display device 1510 so that informationdisplayed can be seen. The eyewear housing 1600 also includes an opticalfilter 1606 that is positioned proximate to the UV sensor 1506. In oneembodiment, the optical filter 1606 is a separate component thatinserted into an opening in the eyewear housing 1600 that is proximate(e.g., adjacent) to the UV sensor 1506. In another embodiment, theoptical filter 1606 is integral with the UV sensor 1506.

FIG. 16B is a cross-sectional view of an eyewear housing 1620 containinga UV detection system according to another embodiment of the invention.The eyewear housing 1620 has an opening, cavity or container to receivethe UV detection system, such as the UV detection system 1500 shown inFIG. 15A. The eyewear housing 1620 also has a first window 1622 and asecond window 1624. The first window 1622 is aligned with the powersupply 1504, which would in such an embodiment be a solar panel. Hence,the first window 1622 can allow light to impinge on the solar panel. Thesecond window 1624 is aligned with the display device 1510 so thatinformation displayed can be seen. The eyewear housing 1600 alsoincludes a third window 1626. The third window 1626 is positionedproximate to the UV sensor 1506. The third window 1626 can, in oneembodiment, operate as an optical filter for the UV sensor 1506. Thefirst and second windows 1622 and 1624 can be clear or colored so longas adequate light passes through.

FIG. 16C is a cross-sectional view of an eyewear housing 1640 containinga UV detection system according to still another embodiment of theinvention. The eyewear housing 1640 is generally similar to the eyewearhousing 1620 illustrated in FIG. 16B. However, FIG. 16C illustrates oneway to secure the UV detection system within the portion of the templeregion of the eyewear housing 1640. In particular, the eyewear housing1640 include a stand 1642 and an adhesive material 1644. When assembled,the UV detection system can be placed within the temple region of theeyewear housing 1640 and positioned against the stand 1642, then theadhesive 1644 can be provided within the temple region to secure the UVdetection system in position. The adhesive can vary widely, such asglue, double-stick tape, silicone rubber, epoxy, etc.

FIG. 16D is a cross-sectional view of an eyewear housing 1660 containinga UV detection system according to yet still embodiment of theinvention. The eyewear housing 1660 is generally similar to the eyewearhousing 1600 illustrated in FIG. 16A, except that the electricalcircuitry 1508 may be repositioned on the substrate 1502 and a switchbase 1662 and a switch 1664, such as a button switch, are provided. Asshown in FIG. 16D, the switch base 1662 can attach to the substrate 1502and thereby support the switch 1664 that protrudes outside of theeyewear housing 1660 (or is otherwise accessible) so that a user canactivate the switch (e.g., press the button).

FIG. 16E is a cross-sectional view of an eyewear housing 1670 containinga radiation monitoring system according to one embodiment of theinvention. The eyewear housing 1670 includes a substrate 1502, such as aprinted circuit board. The UV sensor 1506, more generally a radiationsensor, can be placed in an opening or indentation of the substrate1502, or on the substrate 1502. The optical filter 1606 is providedproximate to the radiation sensor which is also adjacent to an opening1672 in the eyewear housing 1670. As an example, the eyewear housing1670 can correspond to a temple of a pair of eyeglasses. The electricalcircuitry 1508 can also be attached to the substrate 1502. In thisembodiment, the electrical circuitry 1508 includes an integrated circuitchip 1674 that is attached or bonded to a first side of the substrate1502 (e.g., printed circuit board). As an example, the integratedcircuit chip 1674 can be a microcontroller, such as the microcontroller4402 illustrated in FIG. 14R. The display device 1510 can be attached toa second side of the substrate. For example, the display device 1510 canbe a LCD panel. Optionally, the opening 1672 can contain an opticalelement, such as a lens, to focus radiation onto the radiation sensor,thereby broadening sensitivity to the angle of incident radiationbroadening angle sensitivity. The optical element may also service as aradiation attenuator and/or an optical filter. For example, a tinteddiffuser dome can act as a lens and an attenuator. Hence, if such anoptical element is used, the optical element may obviate the need forthe separate optical filter 1606. More generally, the optical filter1606 may not be necessary when the sensitivity of the radiation sensoris adequate to limit the measurement to the desired radiation. Althoughnot shown in FIG. 16E, the radiation monitoring system could alsotypically include a power source, such as a battery or solar cell, oneor more switches, and additional electrical circuitry 1508 (e.g.,capacitor) besides the integrated circuit chip 1674.

In general, the UV detection system according to the invention can makeuse of zero or more switches. One type of switch is a button switch,such as a push-button switch. As an example, the switch can serve as areset switch, an on/off switch, or an on (and reset) switch.

FIG. 17A is a cross-sectional view of a module housing 1700 according toone embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 17A, the modulehousing 1700 can operate as a housing for the UV detection system 1500shown in FIG. 15A. The module housing 1700 includes a first window 1702and a second window 1704. The first window 1702 can be proximate to thedisplay device 1510, and the second window 1704 can be proximate to thepower supply 1504, which would in such an embodiment be a solar panel.The first and second windows 1702 and 1704 can be clear or colored solong as adequate light passes through. In one embodiment, the thicknessof the first and second windows 1702 and 1704 is greater than thethickness of the walls of the module housing 1700. The module housing1700 can also include an opening 1706 that is positioned proximate tothe UV sensor 1506. Still further, although not illustrated in FIG. 17A,the module housing 1700 can further include one or more vents or holesso that air can circulate through the module housing 1700.Alternatively, the module housing 1700 does not include vents or holes,so as to be water-resistant or water-proof.

The module housing 1700 is a housing for a module, such as a UVdetection system. The module housing 1700 is then placed into anopening, cavity or container of an eyewear housing, such as a templeregion of the eyewear housing. The module housing 1700 protects themodule. The module housing 1700 can also be used to regularize orstandardize the form factor for the UV detection system, such that theopening, cavity or container of the eyewear housing can be regularizedor standardized.

FIG. 17B is a cross-sectional view of an eyewear housing 1720 accordingto one embodiment of the invention. The eyewear housing 1720 has anopening, cavity or container 1721 for receiving the module housing 1700.As shown in FIG. 17B, the module housing 1700 is contained by theeyewear housing 1720. The eyewear housing 1720 includes an opening 1722that corresponds to the first window 1702 of the module housing 1700.The eyewear housing 1720 also includes an opening 1724 that correspondsto the second window 1704 of the module housing 1700. Still further, theeyewear housing 1720 can optionally further include an optical filter1726 corresponding to the third opening 1706 of the module housing 1700(and thus proximate to the UV sensor 1506). The module housing 1700 can,for example, be held in position with respect to the eyewear housing1720 by an adhesive or by an interference fit.

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of an eyewear housing 1800 having areflective-type filter according to one embodiment of the invention.Here, the eyewear housing 1800 can represent a temple region of a framefor a pair of glasses. Typically, a large percentage of the templeregion is in front of the user's ear when the glasses are being worn.The eyewear housing 1800 has an internal cavity 1802 where a circuitboard 1804 is provided. Electrically coupled to the circuit board 1804are a UV detector 1806 (e.g., based on a photodetector), electricalcircuitry 1808, a display device (e.g., LED, LCD) 1810, and solarcell(s) 1812. As a result, the circuit board 1804 and the UV detector1806, the electrical circuitry 1808, the display device 1810 and thesolar cell(s) 1812 are within the internal cavity 1802 and thus embeddedwithin the eyewear housing 1800.

A UV reflector 1814 is mounted on an internal support 1816. Lightimpinges on the UV reflector 1814 via an opening 1818 in the eyewearhousing 1800. The opening 1818 allows radiation to pass through to theUV reflector 1814. In one embodiment, there can be a piece oftransparent material at the opening 1818 to prevent dust or dirt fromgetting through the opening 1818 into the internal cavity 1802. Theopening 1818 can also be considered a transparent region in the eyewearhousing 1800. The UV reflector 1814 selectively reflects primarily theUV portion of the radiation towards the UV detector 1806. As a result,the reflector 1814 serves as a reflective-type filter, that is, a typeof optical filter. For example, the reflector 1814 can be made of amaterial that substantially reflects UV light but does not reflectnon-UV light. An example of one such reflector is known as a UV hotmirror. Also, the eyewear housing 1800 can also include transparentportions 1820 and 1822 which are adjacent to the display device 1810 andthe solar cell(s) 1822, respectively. The transparent portion 1820allows light from the display device 1810 to be seen from the outside ofthe eyewear housing 1800. The transparent portion 1822 allows light froman external light source to impinge on the solar cell(s) 1812.Alternatively, the display device 1810 could extend to and conform withan outer surface of part of the eyewear housing 1800, and the solarcell(s) 1812 could extend to and confirm with an outer surface of partof the eyewear housing 1800. Alternatively, if a battery were used inplace of the solar cell(s) 1822, then the transparent portion 1822 wouldnot be needed.

In one embodiment, a number of previously described transparent regions,portions, or sheets of materials, such as the transparent portions 1820and 1822 in FIG. 18, can be translucent (including partiallytranslucent). Still another alternative is that the eyewear housing 1800could be primarily translucent.

The optical sensor or UV sensor can receive impinging light from avariety of different directions (i.e., angle of incidence) depending onimplementation. For example, the light can come from an opening in thetop of the temple, such as shown in FIG. 18, or at a side of the temple,such as shown in FIGS. 16A-16C and 17B. As another example, the lightcan come from an opening at an angle between the top and the side of thetemple. Typically, the optical sensor or the UV detector would bealigned with the opening at whatever angle it takes, such alignmenttends to maximize sensitivity of the optical sensor or the UV detector.The optimal angle can also be based on the latitude. Thus, at theequator, the UV detector should point upward. And at the north pole, thesensor should point horizontally. In one embodiment, the size of theopening can be larger to increase impinging light, or can be smaller todecrease impinging light. In another embodiment, the opening can beflared outward so as to increase the amount of impinging light. Further,the opening can also support a lens for focusing impinging light.

The UV detection system can also have a “being-worn” switch as notedabove. In one embodiment, the “being-worn” switch enables the UVmonitoring system to automatically determine when to monitor UVradiation and when not to monitor UV radiation. In particular, the UVradiation can be monitored when an eyeglass frame having the UVdetection system is “being-worn” and not when the eyeglass frame is not“being-worn.” The “being-worn” switch can be positioned in the templeportion with the other components of the UV detection system. In oneembodiment, the UV detection system is provided, as a module as notedabove, and which further includes a switch. The switch can, for example,be a “being worn” switch. By having the switch in the module, themanufacture and assembly of the end-product having the UV detectionsystem can be simplified. As examples, the “being-worn” switch can be anoptical, magnetic or mechanical switching device.

The “being-worn” switch can make use of the situation that the templesare in an open position when the eyeglass frame is being worn, and in aclosed position when not being worn. In one embodiment, the “being-worn”switch can be positioned at a temple proximate to a region that couplesthe temple to its corresponding lens holder. For example, the UVdetection system (e.g., module) can be provided within the temple regionnear the end of the temple so that the “being worn” switch is adjacentthe lens portion of the eyeglass frame.

FIG. 19 is a side view of a temple 1900 for an eyeglass frame accordingto one embodiment of the invention. The side view of FIG. 19 shows anouter side of the temple 1900, namely, the side of the temple 1900 thatfaces outward when being worn. The temple 1900 includes therein a UVdetection system 1902 internal to the temple 1900. A window 1904 isprovided in the temple 1900 for light (e.g., sunlight) to impinge on aUV sensor of the UV detection system 1902. The window 1904 can alsoprovide some optical filtering effects, such as noted above. Althoughnot shown in FIG. 19, the temple 1900 may also have a window or openingfor a solar panel. At a forward end 1906 of the temple 1900 where ahinge is typically provided, a pin 1908 is exposed. The pin 1908 passesthrough an opening at the forward end 1906 of the temple 1900. The pin1908 is coupled to a switch internal to the temple 1900 and part of theUV detection system 1902. When the pin 1908 is not depressed, as shownin FIG. 19, the switch informs the UV detection system 1902 that theeyeglass frame is closed, i.e., not being worn. On the other hand, whenthe eyeglass frame is opened, i.e., presumably being worn, the pin 1908is depressed by the forward end 1906 abutting against a portion of itscorresponding lens holder, thereby informing the UV detection system1902 that the eyeglass frame is opened. In one embodiment, the pin 1908is only depressed when the temple 1900 of the eyeglass frame is fullyopened, such that the eyeglass frame would almost necessarily be worn(particularly when there is a bias against the eyeglass frame beingfully open).

FIGS. 20A and 20B are top view diagrams of a portion of an eyeglassframe 2000 according to one embodiment of the invention. The eyeglassframe 2000 includes a lens holder 2002 and a temple 2004. The temple2004 includes a UV detection system therein. The UV detection systemincludes an opening or window 2006 that corresponds to an optical sensorused by the UV detection system. The optical sensor is used as a“being-worn” switch. When the eyeglass frame 2000 is in the openposition as shown in FIG. 20A, the optical sensor detects significantlight, thereby informing the UV detection system that the eyeglass frame2000 is presumably being worn. On the other hand, when the eyeglassframe 2000 is in the closed position as shown in FIG. 20B, the openingor window 2006 is covered by a flap 2008 provided on the lens holder2002. When the flap 2008 covers the opening or window 2006, nosignificant light can be detected by the optical sensor. In such case,the UV detection system is informed that the eyeglass frame 2000 is notbeing worn.

FIG. 21 is a side view of a temple 2100 for an eyeglass frame accordingto one embodiment of the invention. The side view of FIG. 21 shows aninner side of the temple 2100, namely, the side of the temple 2100 thatfaces inward when being worn. The temple 2100 includes therein a UVdetection system 2102 internal to the temple 2100. The temple 2100 mayalso have a window or opening (not shown) that corresponds to an outputdevice (e.g., display). A window or opening 2104 is provided at arearward portion of the temple 2100. The window or opening 2104corresponds to an optical sensor (internal to the temple 2100) providedat the window or opening 2104. The window or opening 2104 allows light(e.g., sunlight) to impinge on the optical sensor. The optical sensor iscoupled to the UV detection system 2102 via one or more electrical wires2106. When the temple 2100 of the eyeglass frame is being worn by auser, the optical sensor will be blocked from receiving significantamounts of light, thereby informing the UV detection system 2102 thatthe eyeglass frame is being worn. For example, the optical sensor can beblocked by the user's head or hair when the eyeglass frame is beingworn. On the other hand, when the temple 2100 of the eyeglass frame isnot being worn by a user, the optical sensor will receive significantamounts of light, thereby informing the UV detection system 2102 thatthe eyeglass frame is not being worn. Of course, at night often littleor no light will impinge on the optical sensor. Optionally, in such casethe lack of any significant light (e.g., detected by another opticalsensor or solar cell) can be used to ensure that the UV detection systemdoes not operate at night, such that the eyeglass frame can beconsidered not being worn at night (even if being worn at night).

FIG. 22 is a side view of a temple 2200 for an eyeglass frame accordingto another embodiment of the invention. The side view of FIG. 22 showsan outer side of the temple 2200, namely, the side of the temple 2200that faces outward when being worn. The temple 2200 includes therein aUV detection system 2202 internal to the temple 2200. Although not shownin FIG. 22, the temple 2200 may also have windows or openings for asolar panel and/or an optical sensor. At a forward end 2204 of thetemple 2200, a magnetic switch 2206 is provided. The magnetic switch2206 is internal to the temple 2200 and part of the UV detection system2202. The magnetic switch 2206 can use a magnet to provide a switch. Themagnetic switch 2206 switches from a first position to a second positionwhen a metallic material is adjacent the forward end 2204 of the temple2200. For example, such metallic material can be provided in a portionof a lens holder that abuts the forward end 2204 when the temple 2200 isin the open position. Here, when the switch is in the open position, themetallic material is adjacent the forward end 2204 of the temple 2200,and the UV detection system 1902 understands that the eyeglass frame isopened, i.e., presumably being worn. In such case, the switch can beconsidered to be in the second position. On the other hand, when theeyeglass frame is closed, i.e., not being worn, the switch is in thefirst position because the metallic material is no longer adjacent theforward end 2204 of the temple 2200. Then, the UV detection system 2202understands that the eyeglass frame is closed (i.e., not being worn). Inone embodiment, the magnetic switch 2206 can be implemented by a Halleffect sensor. Alternatively, it should be understood that the magneticswitch could be provided at a portion of a lens holder that abuts theforward end 2204 when the eyeglass frame has the temple 2200 open, andthe metallic material could be at the forward end 2204.

The “being worn” switch can also be used by a user to signal the UVdetection system to provide its output at an output device, such as adisplay device. For example, when the “being worn” switch is initiallyclosed (i.e., being worn), the UV detection system can output its textor graphical output to the display device. Typically, the displayedoutput would be displayed only for a limited period of time (e.g., 10seconds). Such an approach is power efficient, yet permits the user toobtain the output information when desired. Alternatively, anotherswitch (e.g., dedicated output switch) could be used to cause the outputto be displayed for a limited period of time or while the switch isdepressed.

The UV detection system can also make use of one or more switches tochange operational settings, such as threshold levels, output type, userpreferences, user physical characteristics (e.g., skin type),accumulation mode or non-accumulation mode, activation/deactivation ofauxiliary sensors.

The UV detection system can make use of one or more variable capacitorsor resistors within the design of the electronic circuit to facilitate amanufacturer or dispenser to calibrate the UV detection. Such can assistwith quality control as well as consistency or uniformity. The UVdetection system can also alter another aspect of the electroniccircuitry, such as a count or divide amount (FIG. 14B), to calibrate theUV detection.

Calibration or customization of the UV detection system can also beperformed after manufacturer by a user or dispenser. As one example, theeyewear can be sold or dispensed with one or more stickers available forplacement over the radiation detector (e.g., UV sensor). The stickerscan attenuate the radiation impinging on the radiation detector. Inother words, the stickers can perform sensitivity adjustment on the UVdetection system. Different ones of the stickers can offer differentdegrees of attenuation. A user can thus select an appropriate stickerbased on their skin type (or amount of exposure they prefer) and placeit over the radiation detector, thereby calibrating or customizing theUV detection system to the user.

As previously noted, the optical sensor (e.g., UV sensor) can beimplemented by at least one photodetector, such as a phototransistor.Although various different phototransistors can be utilized, one exampleof a suitable phototransistor is Part No. PT100MCOMP available fromSharp Microelectronics of the Americas. As another example, a suitablephototransistor for the phototransistor is Part No. EL-PT15-21B (1206phototransistor) available from Everlight Electronics Co., Ltd. As stillanother example, other suitable phototransistors are GaN or SiCphototransistors. Alternatively, although the discussion above at timesrefers to phototransistors, the photodetector can also be a photodiode.In the case of a photodiode, similar circuitry to that noted above wouldbe utilized. Although various different photodiodes can be utilized, oneexample of a suitable photodiode is Part No. PD100MCOMP available fromSharp Microelectronics of the Americas.

The radiation sensors or detectors, including phototransistors andphotodiodes, used for radiation monitoring are often designed forsensing or detecting certain types of radiation. For example, a UVsensor or UV detector would be an electronic device that is sensitive toUV radiation, namely, the wavelengths of light pertaining to UVspectrum. While such electronic device may be primarily sensitive tosuch radiation of interest (e.g., UV radiation), they may also besomewhat sensitive to other radiation. Optical filters can be used toassist these sensors or detectors in sensing the desired type ofradiation. Nevertheless, radiation monitoring can be achieved eventhough the radiation sensors or detectors are sensitive to non-desiredradiation so long as they are primarily or principally responsive to thedesired radiation.

When the radiation to be monitored is UV radiation, the optical filterdescribed above is typically implemented by a material that passesradiation in the UV wavelength band and blocks radiation not in the UVwavelength band. Various materials can be used in this regard. In oneembodiment, the material providing the optical filtering can be known asa UV cold mirror. However, in another embodiment, the optical filter mayhave other characteristics, such as a material (e.g., polycarbonate)that passes radiation not in the UV wavelength band and blocks radiationin the UV wavelength band. In another embodiment, the optical filter canutilize a material that passes light primarily associated with theultraviolet wavelength range while substantially blocking light of otherwavelengths. Such a material can, for example, be a filter made fromquartz-glass with nickel oxide, such is commonly known as Wood's glass.The material implementing the optical filter can also be configured invarious ways, such as a plug for an opening or a coating on a surface(or on the photodetector itself). In one embodiment, the materialimplementing the optical filter can either pass or reflect the UVradiation.

An output (e.g., notification, such as a warning) to the user can varyin content and type. The type can be visual and/or audio. The contentcan be numerical, graphical, musical, textual, synthesized text, etc. Aprogression of warnings can be used to give more substantial warning(such as when prior warnings are ignored). The output can also bepredetermined, dynamically determined or configurable. Still further,the output can be dependent on user preferences, user physicalcharacteristics (e.g., skin type), auxiliary sensor information (e.g.,location), and degree of health risk.

The radiation monitoring system can also include one or more connectorswith the eyewear. The connectors can, for example, facilitate electricalor mechanical interconnection with an external electrical device (e.g.,computing device, media player, headset, power source). Although theformat and size of the connectors can vary, in one embodiment, theconnector is a standard audio connector or a peripheral bus connector(e.g., USB connector).

The radiation monitoring system can also include one or more switcheswith the eyewear. The switches can, for example, facilitate user inputor control with respect to the radiation monitoring system. For example,the switches can provide one or more of on/off, reset, on, on (andreset), and calibration. One example of a calibration switch is a skintype switch that provides switch positions for different skin types(e.g., light, medium and dark). The radiation monitoring system can alsoprovide a user with an indication of whether the system is currently onor off, such as by a graphical image on a display device or by a LED.

A radiation monitoring system can also include a memory. The memory canbe volatile or non-volatile. The memory can also be removable ornon-removable with respect to the eyewear. If the memory is volatile,the radiation monitoring system could include a battery to provide powerto the memory so that stored data (e.g., accumulated radiation, userpreferences, etc.) can be retained even when adequate solar energy isnot available. As an example, the presence of a memory can allow storageof radiation information for an extended period of time to acquire ahistorical understanding of radiation information.

In one embodiment, an eyeglass frame can include memory that can storeacquired radiation information, such stored radiation information can besubsequently uploaded to a computer, in a wired or wireless manner. Theradiation information can then be analyzed by the computer. For example,a doctor may require a patient to keep track of his exposure to UVradiation, or other radiations, to assist the doctor to evaluate risksor symptoms.

In another embodiment, a user of an eyeglass frame interact with aswitch provided on the eyeglass frame to set a calibration level. As anexample, in the case of UV radiation, the calibration level cancorrespond to the user's skin type. In general, the calibration levelcauses the amount of acceptable radiation (e.g., threshold levels) tovary.

In still another embodiment, a user can go through a calibrationprocedure when the user purchases the eyeglasses. The calibrationprocedure can operate to personalizes the UV detection system for theuser. For example, the complexion of the user's skin affects the user'ssensitivity to UV. Based on the skin complexion, a UV monitoring systemadjusts the levels of acceptable exposure to UV. The calibrationprocedure can be performed wired or wirelessly. For example, thecalibration can be done by a computer, with the calibration datadownloaded to the eyeglasses through a connector integral with theeyeglasses.

A radiation monitoring system can also include a communication module.The communication module would allow data transmission to and from theradiation monitoring system (namely, the eyewear) and an externaldevice. The data being transmitted can, for example, be radiationinformation, configuration data, user preferences, or auxiliary sensordata. The data transmission can be wireless or wireline based. Theeyewear can further include a connector operatively connected to theradiation monitoring system. Such a connector can facilitate datatransmission with respect to the radiation monitoring system or theeyewear.

A temple of a pair of glasses can be removable of the remainder of theframe. Such facilitates replacement of temples. For example, aconvention temple could be removed from a frame and replaced with atemple having a least one electrical component at least partiallyembedded therein.

A radiation monitoring system can be partially or fully contained in atemple arrangement associated with a temple of a pair of glasses. In oneembodiment, the temple arrangement can be removable from the temple. Atemple arrangement can be a temple tip, a temple cover or a templefit-over.

A radiation monitoring system can be partially or fully tethered to apair of glasses. For example, some of the components for monitoringradiation or one or more auxiliary sensors can be tethered to theeyewear. In one embodiment, the tethered components can be tethered atthe neck or upper back region of the user. Tethering components allowsfor increased design freedom with the eyewear as well as additional areawith which to house the components.

Still further, a radiation monitoring system could be partially orcompletely within a device or a base that can be tethered to eyewear.

A number of embodiments have been described above for an eyeglass frame,i.e., primary frame. Such embodiments are also applicable to anauxiliary frame. An auxiliary frame can attach to a primary framethrough different techniques, such as using clips. Another technique toattach an auxiliary frame to a primary frame is by way of magnets.Examples of using magnets as an attachment technique can be found, forexample, in U.S. Pat. No. 6,012,811, entitled, “EYEGLASS FRAMES WITHMAGNETS AT BRIDGES FOR ATTACHMENT.”

Although much of the discussion above concentrates on UV monitoring, theinvention is generally applicable to radiation monitoring. The radiationcan, for example, pertain to one or more of UV, infrared, light andgamma radiation. Light, namely visible light, can be referred to asambient light.

Also, the above discussion concerning UV sensor or UV monitor isgenerally applicable to radiation sensors or monitors. One embodiment ofa radiation sensor or monitor which principally measures light is alight sensor or a light monitor. More particularly, in measuring light,sunlight is a dominant source of light, such that a radiation sensor ormonitor which principally measures light can be referred to as a sunsensor or a sun monitor. In such case, radiation monitoring can beconsidered light monitoring or sunlight monitoring.

Visible light is part of everyday life and is generally not consideredharmful to persons. In one embodiment, the measurement of light can beused to infer a measurement of harmful radiation (e.g., UV radiation).

A number of embodiments have been described where a radiation monitoringsystem is embedded in a temple of an eyeglass frame. However, in otherembodiments, the radiation monitoring system can be in other parts ofthe eyeglass frame, such as the bridge or lens holder region. Also, foreyewear having shield(s) or wrap-around lenses, the radiation monitoringsystem can also be in such shield(s) or lenses.

Although much of the above discussion pertains to providing radiation(e.g., radiation) monitoring capabilities in eyewear, it should beunderstood the any of the various embodiment, implementations, featuresor aspects noted above can also be utilized is other or on end productsbesides eyewear. Examples of other such end-products can include: hats(e.g., soft hats, hard-hats, helmets), watches or watch bands,bracelets, bracelet accessories, necklaces, necklace accessories, rings,shoes (e.g., sandals, athletic shoes, beach shoes), shoe accessories,clothing (e.g., tee-shirt, swimming-suit, ties, pants, jackets, etc.),belts, belt accessories, zippers, key rings, purses, beach-tags,containers (e.g., cups, bottle, tube—such as a sun tan lotion bottle ortube); container holders (e.g., can holders, coasters, coolers, etc.),and other consumer products.

FIGS. 23A-23G illustrate examples of various end products havingradiation monitoring capability. FIG. 23A illustrates a hat 2300 havinga radiation monitoring system 2302. The radiation monitoring system 2302can be attached to or embedded within the hat 2300. FIG. 23B illustratesa watch 2304 having a radiation monitoring system 2302. The watch 2304can have a base 2306 and a band 2308. The radiation monitoring system2302 can be coupled to the band 2308 as illustrated in FIG. 23B.Alternatively, the radiation monitoring system 2302 can be coupled tothe base 2306. FIG. 23C illustrates a shirt 2310 having a radiationmonitoring system 2302. As shown in FIG. 23C, in one embodiment, theradiation monitoring system 2302 can be placed in the upper, chest, backor shoulder region of the shirt 2310. FIG. 23D illustrates a shoe 2312having a radiation monitoring system 2302. The radiation monitoringsystem 2302 can, for example, be placed at the top, upper portion of theshoe 2312. FIG. 23E illustrates a key chain 2314 having a radiationmonitoring system 2302. FIG. 23F illustrates a bracelet or necklace 2316having a radiation monitoring system 2302. FIG. 23G illustrates a bottleor tube 2318 having a radiation monitoring system 2302.

If the end product is soft or made of cloth (e.g., clothing, purse, hat,etc), then the radiation monitoring system (e.g., provided as a module)can be sewn onto the cloth or adhered to the cloth using an adhesive(e.g., adhesive tape). The module, or a case for the module, can havethin flanges about its periphery which can be easily sewn onto thecloth. The case for the radiation monitoring system can be molded intoits desired shape (e.g., injection molded, compression molded orvacu-formed). The case can be soft (vinyl, thin polypropylene, softpolyurethane, or PET). Typically, if flanges are utilized for sewing,they would be thin and soft. Alternatively, the case can be hard (e.g.,PVC, polypropylene, nylon, polycarbonate, or styrene). If the endproduct is hard, the case can also be hard.

When the end product is a container, such as the bottle or tube 2318shown in FIG. 23G, the radiation monitoring system 2302 can be attachedto the bottle or tube 2318 or can be molded into the bottle or tube2318. In one embodiment, the bottle or tube 2318 is a plastic container.The radiation monitoring system 2302 is particularly well suited to beattached or integral with a bottle or tube, often plastic, that containssun tan lotion. Sun tan lotion includes sun tan or sun block lotions,including sun tan or sun block oils.

The various embodiments, implementations and features of the inventionnoted above can be combined in various ways or used separately. Thoseskilled in the art will understand from the description that theinvention can be equally applied to or used in other various differentsettings with respect to various combinations, embodiments,implementations or features provided in the description herein.

The invention can be implemented in software, hardware or a combinationof hardware and software. A number of embodiments of the invention canalso be embodied as computer readable code on a computer readablemedium. The computer readable medium is any data storage device that canstore data which can thereafter be read by a computer system. Examplesof the computer readable medium include read-only memory, random-accessmemory, CD-ROMs, magnetic tape, optical data storage devices, andcarrier waves. The computer readable medium can also be distributed overnetwork-coupled computer systems so that the computer readable code isstored and executed in a distributed fashion.

The advantages of the invention are numerous. Different embodiments orimplementations may yield one or more of the following advantages. Oneadvantage of the invention is that radiation monitoring can beinconspicuously performed in conjunction with eyewear. Another advantageof the invention is that electrical components for radiation monitoringcan be embedded within a frame (e.g., temple) of eyewear. Still anotheradvantage of the invention is that radiation monitoring can beintelligently performed such that it operates only at likely appropriatetimes to improve accuracy and usefulness. Yet another advantage of theinvention is that eyewear may further include one or more auxiliarysensors that can cause additional output to be provided to the user.

Numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thoroughunderstanding of the invention. However, it will be understood by thoseskilled in the art that the invention may be practiced without thesespecific details. The description and representation herein are thecommon meanings used by those experienced or skilled in the art to mosteffectively convey the substance of their work to others skilled in theart. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, andcircuitry have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarilyobscuring aspects of the present invention.

In the foregoing description, reference to “one embodiment” or “anembodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, orcharacteristic described in connection with the embodiment can beincluded in at least one embodiment of the invention. The appearances ofthe phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specificationare not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor areseparate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of otherembodiments. Further, the order of blocks in process flowcharts ordiagrams representing one or more embodiments of the invention do notinherently indicate any particular order nor imply any limitations inthe invention.

The many features and advantages of the invention are apparent from thewritten description and, thus, it is intended by the appended claims tocover all such features and advantages of the invention. Further, sincenumerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilledin the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exactconstruction and operation as illustrated and described. Hence, allsuitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to as fallingwithin the scope of the invention.

1. A frame for eyeglasses having a pair of temples, comprising: anelectronic radiation detector for sensing an amount of radiation; anelectronic circuit operatively connected to said radiation detector,said electronic circuit providing at least radiation information basedon at least the amount of radiation sensed by said radiation detector;and a display device configured to display the radiation information,wherein said radiation detector, said electronic circuit and saiddisplay device are at least partially embedded in at least one of thetemples of said frame, and wherein the one of the temples has at leastan inner surface and another surface, wherein the another surface has anopening corresponding to said electronic radiation detector provided atleast partially therein, and wherein the inner surface has an openingcorresponding to said display device provided at least partiallytherein.
 2. A frame as recited in claim 1, wherein said frame furthercomprises: at least one additional sensor operatively connected to atleast said electronic circuit.
 3. A frame as recited in claim 2, whereinsaid additional sensor is at least partially embedded in said frame. 4.A frame as recited in claim 3, wherein sensor information is produced bysaid at least one additional sensor or by said electronic circuit beingoperatively connected to said at least one additional sensor, whereinsaid frame further comprises an output device to display the radiationinformation and the sensor information, and wherein said electroniccircuit further being operatively connected to said output device todirect said output device to present the radiation information and thesensor information.
 5. A frame as recited in claim 1, wherein said framefurther comprises: at least one solar element for converting light intoelectrical energy, the electrical energy being provided to at least saidelectronic circuit, wherein the at least one solar element is at leastpartially embedded in at least one of the temples of said frame.
 6. Aframe as recited in claim 1, wherein the radiation information isrelated to the intensity of the amount of radiation.
 7. A frame asrecited in claim 1, wherein the radiation information depends onintegrating measured radiation across a duration of time.
 8. A frame asrecited in claim 1, wherein said frame further comprises a connectorthat facilitates electrical connection between at least one component ofsaid electronic circuit and another electrical component external tosaid frame.
 9. A frame as recited in claim 1, wherein said frame furthercomprises at least one additional electrical component tethered to saidframe.
 10. A method for monitoring radiation for a person, said methodcomprising: obtaining a pair of glasses, the glasses having at least alens holder, a pair of temples, an electronic radiation detector and adisplay device, wherein the pair of glasses may be worn by the person;acquiring a radiation level impinging on the radiation detector of thepair of glasses; and outputting radiation information to the personbased on the radiation level, wherein the radiation information beingoutput is displayed on the display device, wherein the radiationdetector and the display device are at least partially embedded in atleast one of the temples of said frame, and wherein the one of thetemples has at least an inner surface and another surface, wherein theanother surface has an opening corresponding to the electronic radiationdetector provided at least partially therein, and wherein the innersurface has an opening corresponding to the display device provided atleast partially therein.
 11. A method as recited in claim 10, whereinsaid method further comprises: determining whether the person is wearingthe pair of glasses, and wherein said acquiring and said outputting areperformed only when the person is determined to be wearing the pair ofglasses.
 12. A method as recited in claim 10, wherein the radiationinformation being output is at least one of: a numerical value, a wordor a graphic symbol.
 13. A method as recited in claim 10, wherein theradiation information being displayed on said display device comprisesone of a plurality of predetermined graphic symbols, the one of theplurality of predetermined graphic symbols being displayed depends onthe radiation level.
 14. A method as recited in claim 13, wherein theradiation level can be accumulated across a duration of time, andwherein a first of the predetermined graphic symbols is displayed on thedisplay device when an accumulated radiation level is low, a second ofthe predetermined graphic symbols is displayed on the display devicewhen an accumulated radiation level is moderate, and a third of thepredetermined graphic symbols is displayed on the display device when anaccumulated radiation level is high.
 15. A method as recited in claim10, wherein the radiation information being displayed on said displaydevice comprises one of a plurality of numerical values, the one of theplurality of numerical values being displayed depends on the radiationlevel.